Terminology and Definitions
摘要
This chapter explores the rapid advancements in Artificial Intelligence (AI) and their transformative impact on architecture, building on AI’s historical evolution from Turing’s theories to modern generative algorithms. It examines AI’s multifaceted role in architectural practice as a generative design tool, analytical instrument, operational system, and visualisation aid. The chapter clarifies key AI concepts and terminologies, including Artificial Neural Networks (ANNs), Large Language Models (LLMs), Generative Pre-trained Transformers (GPT), Deep Learning, Generative AI, Diffusion Models, Generative Adversarial Networks (GANs), Deep Dream, Computer Vision, Image Synthesis, Image Super-Resolution, Style Transfer, and Neural Radiance Fields (NeRF). These technologies enable architects to create diverse design variants, analyse complex datasets, and enhance visualisations, while introducing new complexities in terminology and application. The discussion highlights AI’s growing integration into architecture, reshaping design processes and fostering innovative human–machine collaboration.