Convex and solid void domainsof application : representing and studying the urban void

Abstract

Convex Voids are derived from convex 3D informed representations of public space. Contrary to space syntax traditional convex spaces which take the fatest spaces (spaces with the fattest inscribed circle) for their definition, convex 3D informed spaces resort to a ‘fattest+squareness’ algorithm to generate their representations based on an aggregation of triangles, which is able to recognize two streets crossing as individual spaces defined by the street corners. They are informed because they derive from geographic information and therefore can have associated information, plus additional information that might be derived from analytical procedures. And they are 3D informed because they contain information on elevation, slope, boundary elevations and neighbour spaces (plus inherited GIS information). This information is used to generate an extrusion of the convex space into a three dimensional representation called Convex Void. Solid Voids are aggregations of convex voids. Consequently, solid voids tend to cross each other at street crossings generating a network representation where solid voids can be characterized by the number of convex voids defining them expressing continuity, the number of connections with other solid voids expressing connectivity and the topological distance from other solid voids expressing network depth. A systematic study of spatial types and their boundary conditions based on solid void models may provide new insights regarding an understanding of public space behaviour and its design conditions for the development of citizen friendly urban spaces.