A new multi-user computer-aided design (CAD) system for personal computers was launched recently, called Druid. The package, which was developed by D’Arcy Race, is intended to provide a relatively inexpensive two-dimensional drawing system.
Druid is capable of showing up to 16 drawings on screen at the same time. The user can pan across the drawings, closing in on a detail or pulling out to secure a wider view. Also, different layers of graphic detail may be stored just like overlays on a drawing board. And once the data has been input, drawings may be plotted to any scale.
Druid, it is claimed, is easy to use, with prompts to assist the user. The equipment required to run the system includes: an IBM compatible personal computer; a minimum of 10 megabytes of hard disc; a tablet or a mouse; a high-resolution graphics screen; and a pen or electrostatic plotter.
D’Arcy Race are part of the Fitzroy Robinson Partnership, a UK CAD bureau and consultancy. They have worked on CAD projects for, among others, Oxford Regional Health Authority and South Oxfordshire District Council. They claim to be the first UK architectural practice to operate solely by use of the computer, without drawing boards.
Further information from D’Arcy Race Ltd, 96 Portland Place, London W1N 3HD (01-631 4841).
