A framework and implementation techniques for cooperative architectural engineering design systems

In order to realize the cooperative design for architecture engineering among people in different specialties or in different zones, a computer supported cooperative design system based on network environment, which can integrate different professional programs and function modules, is presented. The key implementation techniques, which include solution of data integration based on neutral database, communication mechanism based on standard network protocol, particularly for multimedia system, synchronous and asynchronous control for model data and working rules in cooperative design are also illuminated. 3DMECAD, a prototype cooperative design system was developed by us to prove the validity of our solution. The system has a promising foreground in China.