In a context of increasing complexity of urban physics and heterogeneity of environmental data sources, UrbanMetrix stands as an advanced software for building site analysis. This tool facilitates engineers and architects to easily and intuitively devise optimal solutions according to qualitative metrics related to solar radiation, views, air currents and surrounding noise sources. 

The main problem with traditional urban simulation software traces the chicken and egg paradox: they require the definition of an initial architectural design to initiate environmental simulations, but the goal would be precisely to devise such designs based on the results of the simulations themselves. 

UrbanMetrix turns this self-referential scheme on its head by enabling valuable design suggestions to be obtained from an accurate analysis of the empty space of each building site.

The technology is based on high-resolution, large-scale 3D data related to the accurate shape of land, buildings and vegetation, and processed using innovative methods of computer graphics, fluid dynamics, acoustics and cloud-computing.The results of these simulations are made available to users through an advanced visualization and interaction framework conveniently usable from their browsers.

"UrbanMetrix is a next-generation product that is based on the fusion of interdisciplinary techniques and knowledge toward a common analysis, allowing the tool to propose architectural solutions that are out of the box and capable of simultaneously satisfying a number of variables that are difficult to manage by a single individual's perception," explains Dr. Achille Peternier, ISIN Adjunct Professor and project leader in collaboration with Massimo Coluzzi, ISIN Lecturer-Researcher.

"This collaboration - adds Michele Leidi, CEO of Archimethod SA - allows us to enhance our know-how and technologies through SUPSI's advanced expertise in fields such as cloud, 3D graphics, and user interfaces. UrbanMetrix will give all interested architects and engineers new means to conceive more efficient, healthy and sustainable architectural solutions".

The project was selected among the participants in the prestigious Prix SIA award.