WO2020167246A1

WO2020167246A1 - A system for facilitating layout planning, a platform associated with the system and a processing method in association thereto

Info

Publication number: WO2020167246A1
Application number: PCT/SG2019/050091
Authority: WO
Inventors: Yuxin Eunice OOI
Original assignee: Spacesense Technologies Pte. Ltd.
Priority date: 2019-02-15
Filing date: 2019-02-15
Publication date: 2020-08-20

Abstract

There is provided a system, and a platform associated with the system, for facilitating space (or layout) planning in one or both of an efficient manner and a user-friendly manner. There is further provided a processing method in association with the system and/or the platform. The system, given a floor plan of a property (e.g., an office unit or an apartment unit), can facilitate space/layout planning by manner of allowing a user to perform the task of space/layout planning without the need for/at least reduced reliance on professional knowledge or assistance.

Description

A SYSTEM FOR FACILITATING LAYOUT PLANNING, A PLATFORM ASSOCIATED WITH THE SYSTEM AND A PROCESSING METHOD IN

ASSOCIATION THERETO

Field Of Invention

The present disclosure generally relates to a system, and a platform associated with the system, for facilitating space (or layout) planning in one or both of an efficient manner and a user-friendly manner. The present disclosure further relates to a processing method in association with the system and/or the platform.

Background

During the process of renting a property (e.g., an office unit or an apartment), a potential tenant (i.e., a renter) may face difficulties planning the internal layout (e.g., placement of furniture etc.) of, for example, the office unit (i.e., which can typically be a bare office space). Specifically, the potential tenant may have difficulties visualizing the internal layout.

Conventionally, a professional space planner can be engaged to perform the task of a testfit (i.e., propose a potential internal layout) using a floor plan (e.g., of the office unit) which can, for example, be provided by the landlord.

However, such testfits, as performed by engaging the services of a professional space planner, would require much time (e.g., 7 days) and can result in lost opportunities (e.g., the potential tenant may lose interest over time or the office unit may be rented by another tenant during that time).

Moreover, if iterations are required (e.g., if the potential tenant is not satisfied with an initial proposal of a potential internal layout), much effort would be required (e.g., remove, replace and/or shift furniture).

Hence the present disclosure contemplates that current solutions (e.g., engaging a professional space planner) do not facilitate testfits in one or both of a user-friendly and efficient manner. The present disclosure contemplates that there is therefore a need for a solution which addresses, at least in part, one or more of the forgoing problems. Summary of the Invention

In accordance with an aspect of the disclosure, there is provided a platform. The platform can be suitable for facilitating layout planning of a property unit (e.g., an office unit or an apartment unit). The property unit can be associated with a floor plan which can be representative of layout area of the property unit. Layout planning of the property unit can be by manner of planning layout using the floor plan. In this regard, the floor plan can be associated with a layout which can be arranged/specified in accordance with one or more user requirements.

The floor plan can be further associated with at least one pre-defined zone. The pre- defined zone can be associated with at least one limit. In one embodiment, the limit(s) can correspond to one or both of physical area limitation and loading limitation.

The platform can include a user interface screen which can be operated for generating at least one input signal. The input signal(s) can be indicative of at least one user requirement concerning layout of the floor plan (e.g., specifying layout of the floor plan).

The platform can further include an output interface screen which can be configured to display at least one output signal. The output signal(s) can correspond to either: at least one default output signal, or

at least one output signal indicative of user requirement.

Additionally, the platform can be configured to determine whether the user requirement contravenes the limit associated with the pre-defined zone.

When it can be determined (i.e., by the platform) that the user requirement contravenes the limit associated with the pre-defined zone, the platform can be configured to ignore the input signal(s) and generate at least one default output signal. Specifically, in one embodiment, when the input signal is indicative of user requirement which contravenes the physical area limitation and/or loading limitation associated with the pre-defined zone, the platform can be configured to ignore the input signal and generate at least one default output signal corresponding to a suggested layout plan based on optimized furnishing arrangement for the pre defined zone.

When it can be determined (i.e., by the platform) that the user requirement is within (i.e., not more than/not exceeding) the limit associated with the pre-defined zone, the platform can be configured to process the input signal(s) in a manner so as to generate at least one output signal indicative of user requirement. Specifically, in one embodiment, when the input signal is indicative of user requirement being within (i.e., not more than/not exceeding) the at least one limit, the platform can be configured to process the input signal(s) in a manner so as to generate at least one output signal indicative of user requirement corresponding to an automatically generated layout plan which is in accordance with user requirement.

Moreover, in one embodiment, the layout area of the property unit can correspond to physical floor area of the property unit. The pre-defined zone can be further associated with an area (i.e., area of the pre-defined zone).

The platform can be configured to determine whether area of the pre-defined zone exceeds the layout area.

The platform can be further configured to either:

allow operation of the user interface screen to generate the input signal(s), or impede the input signal(s) from being generated via the user interface screen (e.g., the user may not be provided with an option/opportunity to generate the input signal(s) via the user interface screen).

Specifically, in one embodiment, the platform can be configured to impede the input signal(s) from being generated via the user interface screen when it can be determined (e.g., by the platform) that physical area limitation has been contravened (i.e., area of the pre-defined zone exceeds the layout area). Moreover, the platform can be configured to generate at least one output signal indicative of a default floorplan with suggested default layout when the physical area limitation has been contravened.

Conversely, when it can be determined (e.g., by the platform) that physical area limitation has yet been contravened (i.e., area of the pre-defined zone is determined to be within/not more than the layout area), the platform can be configured to allow operation (i.e., by the user) of the user interface screen to generate the input signal(s).

In accordance with another aspect of the disclosure, there is provided a processing method. The processing method can be suitable for facilitating layout planning of a property unit (e.g., an office unit or an apartment unit). The property unit can be associated with a floor plan which can be representative of layout area of the property unit. Layout planning of the property unit can be by manner of planning layout using the floor plan. In this regard, the floor plan can be associated with a layout which can be arranged/specified in accordance with one or more user requirements.

The floor plan can be further associated with at least one pre-defined zone. The pre defined zone can be associated with at least one limit. The processing method can include characterizing the floor plan (i.e., for producing one or more characterization signals).

The processing method can further include receiving at least one input signal generated by a user performing the task of layout planning. The input signal can be indicative of at least one user requirement.

The processing method can yet further include processing the input signal(s) based on the characterized floor plan (i.e., corresponding to the aforementioned characterization signal(s)) in a manner so as to produce at least one output signal (e.g., output signal indicative of user requirement corresponding to an automatically generated layout plan which is in accordance with user requirement). The output signal(s) can correspond to a visually perceivable layout plan generated in accordance with user requirement.

Brief Description of the Drawings

Embodiments of the disclosure are described hereinafter with reference to the following drawings, in which:

Fig. 1 shows a system capable of facilitating space/layout planning in one or both of an efficient manner and a user-friendly manner, according to an embodiment of the disclosure; Fig. 2 shows a platform associated with the system of Fig. 1 , according to an embodiment of the disclosure;

Fig. 3a and Fig. 3b illustrate the platform of Fig. 2 in an exemplary context of an office layout arrangement platform, according to an embodiment of the disclosure;

Fig. 4 shows that the office layout arrangement platform of Fig. 3 can be configured to generate and present a results screen, according to an embodiment of the disclosure; Fig. 5 shows a processing method in association with the system of Fig. 1 and/or the platform of Fig. 2, according to an embodiment of the disclosure; and

Fig. 6a and Fig. 6b show exemplary presentation schemes in association with the office layout arrangement platform of Fig. 3, according to an embodiment of the disclosure. Detailed Description

The present disclosure relates to a system for facilitating space (or layout) planning in one or both of an efficient manner and a user-friendly manner. One or both of a platform and a processing method can be associated with the system. Specifically. given a floor plan of a property (e.g., an office unit or an apartment unit), the present disclosure contemplates that it is useful to facilitate space/layout planning (e.g., of the office unit/the apartment unit) in an efficient and/or user-friendly manner. More specifically, the present disclosure contemplates that it will be useful to allow a user to perform the task of space/layout planning (e.g., of an office unit/of an apartment unit) without the need for/at least reduced reliance on professional knowledge or assistance.

The above will be discussed in further detail with reference to Fig. 1 to Fig. 6 hereinafter.

Referring to Fig. 1 , a system 100 is shown, according to an embodiment of the disclosure. Specifically, Fig. 1 shows a system 100 capable of facilitating space/layout planning (i.e., of a property unit such as an office unit or an apartment unit) in one or both of an efficient manner and a user-friendly manner (i.e., in an efficient manner and/or a user-friendly manner), according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

The system 100 can, for example, correspond to a communication system capable of being used by one or more users for performing one or more tasks associated with space/layout planning. A task can, in one example, correspond to layout planning of office space of an office unit. In another example, a task can correspond to layout planning of apartment space of an apartment unit. A task corresponding to layout planning can also be generally referred to as a “testfit” according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

The system 100 can include one or more computers 102 (e.g., laptop(s), desktop computer(s) and/or electronic mobile device(s) having computing capabilities such as Smartphone(s) and electronic tablet(s)), at least one host device 104 (e.g., a host server), one or more databases 106 (e.g., one or more storage type servers) and a communication network 108 (e.g., an Internet network).

The computer(s) 102 and the host device 104 can be coupled to the communication network 108. The database(s) 106 can be one or both of coupled to the communication network 108 and reside in the host device 104 (i.e., coupled to the communication network 108 and/or reside in the host device 104).

In one embodiment, each of the computer(s) 102, the host device 104 and the database(s) 106 can be coupled to the communication network 108 by manner of one or both of wired connection and wireless connection (i.e., wired connection and/or wireless connection).

In another embodiment, each of the computer(s) 102 and the host device 104 can be coupled to the communication network 108 by manner of one or both of wired connection and wireless connection (i.e., wired connection and/or wireless connection). Additionally, the database(s) 106 can be carried by the host device 104.

In yet another embodiment, the computer(s) 102, the host device 104 and one or more databases 106 can be coupled to the communication network 108 (i.e., by manner of one or both of wired connection and wireless connection), and one or more other databases 106 can be carried by the host device 104 (i.e., at least one database 106 can reside in the host device 104, and at least one other database 106 can be coupled to the host device 104 and/or the computer(s) 102 via the communication network 108).

The computer(s) 102 and the host device 104 can be configured to communicate with each other via the communication network 108. Moreover, one or both of the computer(s) 102 and the host device 104 can be configured to communicate with one or more database(s) 106. In this regard, the computer(s) 102, the host device 104 and one or more database(s) 106 can be coupled to each other (e.g., via the communication network 108). In one embodiment, the computer(s) 102 can include a first computer 102a and a second computer 102b. Each of the first and second computers 102a/102b can include a display screen (not shown). The first computer 102a, the second computer 102a and the host device 104 can be configured to communicate with each other via the communication network 108. Moreover, the first computer 102a, the second computer 102b and/or the host device 104 can be configured to communicate with at least one database 106 via the communication network 108.

Moreover, the host device 104 can be configured to host/carry a platform 200 which can be used by one or more users to perform one or more testfits. In one example, the platform 200 can be in the form of a graphical user interface (GUI). In another example, the platform 200 can be associated with a GUI. In yet another example, the platform 200 can correspond to a GUI. In one exemplary scenario, the host device 104 can be configured to communicate signals corresponding to a GUI associated with the platform 200 to the computer(s) 102 such that the platform 200 can be displayed at the computer(s) 102 (i.e., via the display screen of the first computer 102a and/or the display screen of the second computer 102b) for use by the user(s) operating the computer(s) 102. For example, the first computer 102a can be used by a first user and the second computer 102b can be used by a second user. The computer(s) 102 can be operated/usable by the aforementioned user(s) (i.e., the first user and/or the second user) to generate input signals. The input signals can be communicated from the computer(s) 102 to the host device 104. The host device 104 can, in one embodiment, be configured to receive and process the input signals to generate output signals. The output signals can, for example, be communicated from the host device 104 to the computer(s) 102.

The output signals can, for example, be graphical based signals which can be displayed at the computer(s) 102 (i.e., via the display screen of the first computer 102a and/or the display screen of the second computer 102b). Specifically, the output signals can, for example, be visually perceived by the user(s) of the computer(s) 102 (i.e., via the display screen(s) of the computer(s) 102). The platform 200 which can be hosted/carried by the host device 104 will be discussed in further detail with reference to Fig. 2 hereinafter.

Fig. 2 shows a platform 200 associated with the system 100, according to an embodiment of the disclosure. The platform 200 can be hosted/carried by the host device 104. The platform 200 can preferably be implemented by manner of software programming. For example, the host device 104 can include a processor (not shown) and the platform 200 can be implemented by manner of a software code which can reside in, and which can be executed by, the processor. The software code, when executed, causes one or more interface screens, which can be visually perceivable by the aforementioned user(s) via the display screen(s) of the computer(s) 102, to be presented in association with the platform 200. An interface screen can, for example, correspond to a GUI. In one embodiment, the interface screens can include a user interface screen 202 and an output interface screen 204. In this regard, the platform 200 can include a user interface screen 202 and an output interface screen 204. For example, the user interface screen 202 can be adjacent the output interface screen 204. Generally, the platform 200 can be displayed via the display screen(s) of the computer(s) 102. Moreover, the user interface screen 202 can correspond to a GUI configured to be usable by a user for generating at least one input signal which can be communicated from a computer 102 to the host device 104. The host device 104 can be configured to received the input signal(s) and process the input signal(s) in a manner so as to produce at least one output signal, according to an embodiment of the disclosure. The output signal(s) can, for example, be communicated from the host device 104 to the computer 102. The output signal(s) can be visually perceived, via the display screen of the computer 102, by the user using the computer 102. For example, the first user can, using the first computer 102a, generate at least one input signal via the user interface screen 202 of the platform 200 displayed via the display screen of the first computer 102a. The input signal(s) can be communicated from the first computer 102a to the host device 104 for processing to generate at least one output signal. The output signal(s) can be communicated from the host device 104 to the first computer 102a. In this regard, the output signal(s) can be visually perceived by the first user (i.e., via the display screen of the first computer 102a). Specifically, the output signal(s) can be presented via the output interface screen 204.

As shown, the user interface screen 202 can include one or more user input sections 206, according to an embodiment of the disclosure. Additionally, a user input section can include one or more user input sub-sections 208, according to an embodiment of the disclosure. Moreover, in one embodiment, the user input section(s) 206 can be adjacent the user input sub-section(s) 208.

For example, the user interface screen 202 can include a first user input section 206a, a second user input section 206b, a third user input section 206c and a fourth user input section 206d. Furthermore, the first user input section 206a can include a first user input sub-section 208a, a second user input sub-section 208b and a third user input sub-section 208c.

The output interface screen 204 can, for example, correspond to a preview screen via which the output signal(s) can be visually presented.

In operation, the input signal(s) can, for example, be generated by a user by manner of making a selection at the user input section(s) 206 followed by one or both of making a further selection and making one or more entries associated with the further selection at the user input sub-section(s) 208. A selection made at the user input section(s) 206 can be associated with one or more primary selection input signals, a further selection made at the user input sub-section(s) 208 can be associated with one or more secondary selection input signals and an entry made in association with a further selection can be associated with one or more entry input signals. In this regard, the input signal(s) can be associated with the primary selection input signal(s), the secondary selection input signal(s), the entry input signal(s) or any combination thereof. In one embodiment, the input signal(s) can be associated with the primary selection input signal(s), and one or both of the secondary selection input signal(s) and the entry input signal(s).

Based on the primary selection input signal(s), the secondary selection input signal(s) and/or the entry input signal(s), the output signal(s) can be generated in the form of a graphical based presentation via the output interface screen 204 which can be visually perceived by a user via the display screen of a computer 102.

The foregoing will be discussed in an exemplary context of an office layout arrangement platform 300 with reference to Fig. 3 and Fig. 4 hereinafter. Specifically, the office layout arrangement platform 300 will be discussed later in further detail based on one example and another example as shown in Fig. 3a and Fig. 3b respectively. Additionally, as will be discussed later in further detail with reference to Fig. 4, the office layout arrangement platform 300 can be configured to generate and present a results screen 400.

Generally, according to an embodiment of the disclosure, the earlier discussed platform 200 can correspond to, for example, an office layout arrangement platform 300 usable for performing a testfit for an office unit. Moreover, a user (i.e., of the office layout arrangement platform 300 to perform a testfit) can be a potential renter of an office unit from a landlord of the office unit.

Moreover, in the exemplary context, one or both of the aforementioned host device 104 and the aforementioned database(s) 106 can carry a floor plan as provided by the landlord of an office unit. Moreover, the testfit can relate to arrangement/fitting of furniture (i.e., layout planning) based on the floor plan (i.e., layout planning by manner of arranging or fitting furniture within the office unit).

The floor plan can, according to an embodiment of the disclosure, be associated with any one, or any combination, of:

at least one default structural based parameter,

at least one default setting and

at least one pre-defined zone. Specifically, the floor plan can be associated with at least one default structural based parameter, at least one default setting and/or at least one pre-defined zone, according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

Specifically, in one embodiment, the floor plan can be associated with one or more default structural based parameters such as general layout, one or more subdividing walls, one or more access doors and main entrance door. For example, one default structural based parameter can be associated with the dimension and shape of the general layout, another default structural based parameter can be associated with the location(s) of the subdividing wall(s), yet another default structural based parameter can be associated with the location(s) of the access door(s) and yet a further default structural based parameter can be associated with the location of the main entrance door.

Furthermore, in another embodiment, the floor plan can further be associated with one or more default settings such as a reception space located near the main entrance door and a toilet near a meeting room. For example, one default setting can be associated with the reception space being located near the main entrance door and another default setting can be associated with the toilet being located near the meeting room.

Moreover, in yet another embodiment, the floor plan can yet be further associated with one or more pre-defined zones such as one or more corridors, one or more workspaces, one or more collaborative spaces, one or more meeting rooms and one or more fire escape paths. For example, one pre-defined zone can be associated with at least one corridor, another pre-defined zone can be associated with at least one workspace, yet another pre-defined zone can be associated with at least one collaborative space (i.e., also referable to as“collaborative”), a further pre-defined zone can be associated with at least one meeting room and yet a further pre-defined zone can be associated with at least one fire escape path. Earlier mentioned, a testfit can relate to arrangement/fitting of furniture based on the floor plan. Specifically, a user (i.e., potential renter) can, using the office layout arrangement platform 300, perform the task of arranging/fitting furniture within the office unit (i.e., a testfit).

In this regard, the aforementioned user interface screen 202 can generally be associated with one or more furniture modules 302 which can be selected for placement within the office unit. Moreover, the aforementioned user interface screen 202 can be configured to present one or more parameter entry portions 304 which can allow a user to input one or more user specific parameters such as the quantity of a particular furniture module 302. Additionally, each furniture module 302 can, for example, be associated with at least one parameter entry portion 304, according to an embodiment of the disclosure. These will be discussed in further detail hereinafter.

Specifically, the aforementioned user input sections 206 can be associated with one or more of the aforementioned pre-defined zones. Earlier mentioned, the aforementioned user input sections 206 can, for example, include a first user input section 206a, a second user input section 206b, a third user input section 206c and a fourth user input section 206d.

Moreover, the aforementioned user input sub-sections 208 can be associated with one or both of the furniture module(s) 302 and the parameter entry portion(s) 304.

As shown in Fig. 3a and Fig. 3b, according to an embodiment of the disclosure, the first user input section 206a can correspond to a first pre-defined zone (e.g., “workspace”), the second user input section 206b can correspond to a second pre defined zone (e.g.,“collaborative”), the third user input section 206c can correspond to a third pre-defined zone (e.g.,“meeting room”) and the fourth user input section 206d can correspond to a fourth pre-defined zone which can be a general unspecified zone (e.g.,“others”). Each user input section (e.g., the first to fourth user input sections 206a/206b/206c/206d) can be configured to present one or more furniture modules 302 unique to the corresponding pre-defined zone and/or one or more parameter entry portions 304.

In one example, as shown in Fig. 3a, the first user input section 206a (e.g., corresponding to“workspace”) can include a plurality of furniture modules 302 which can correspond to the aforementioned user input sub-section(s) 208. For example, the plurality of furniture modules 302 can include a first type furniture module 302a (i.e., corresponding to the aforementioned first user input sub-section 208a), a second type furniture module 302b (i.e., corresponding to the aforementioned second user input sub-section 208b) and a third type furniture module 302c (i.e., corresponding to the aforementioned third user input sub-section 208c). In one embodiment, under the“workspace” selection, the first type furniture module 302a can be associated with an open work desk type arrangement (e.g., a desk and chair combination), the second type furniture module 302b can be associated with a focus space type arrangement (e.g., a cubicle with desk and chair) and the third type furniture module 302c can be associated with a private office type arrangement (e.g., desk and chairs placed in an office room with an access door). Each of the open work desk type arrangement, the focus space type arrangement and the private office type arrangement can be considered to be a furniture module 302 unique to the pre-defined zone represented by the label“workspace”.

In another example, as shown in Fig. 3b, the second user input section 206b (e.g., corresponding to“meeting room”) can include a plurality of furniture modules 302 which can correspond to the aforementioned user input sub-section(s) 208. For example, the plurality of furniture modules 302 can include a first type furniture module 302a (i.e., corresponding to the aforementioned first user input sub-section 208a), a second type furniture module 302b (i.e., corresponding to the aforementioned second user input sub-section 208b), a third type furniture module 302c (i.e., corresponding to the aforementioned third user input sub-section 208c) and a fourth type furniture module 302d ((i.e., corresponding to a fourth user input sub-section). In one embodiment, under the “meeting” selection, the first type furniture module 302a can be associated with a four-person sitting based bullet table arrangement (e.g., combination of a bullet table and four seats), the second type furniture module 302b can be associated with a four-person sitting based round table arrangement (e.g., combination of round table and four seats), the third type furniture module 302c can be associated with a six-person arrangement (e.g., combination of workbench and six seats) and the fourth type furniture module 302d can be associated with a eight-person arrangement (e.g., combination of workbench and eight seats). Each of the four-person sitting based bullet table arrangement, the four-person sitting based round table arrangement, the six-person arrangement and the eight-person arrangement can be considered to be a furniture module 302 unique to the pre-defined zone represented by the label“meeting room”.

In this regard, it is appreciable that the user input section(s) 206 can correspond to one or more selections (e.g., in the form of one or more selection tabs) which can be selected by a user (i.e., to generate the aforementioned primary selection input signal(s)). Each, for example, selection tab (e.g., “workspace,” “collaborative,” “meeting room” and“others”) can represent a pre-defined zone and, when selected, can present one or more user input sub-sections 208 for further selection (i.e., to generate the aforementioned secondary selection input signal(s)) and/or one or more parameter entry portions 304 (i.e., to generate the aforementioned entry input signal(s)) which can allow a user to input one or more user specific parameters (e.g., the quantity of a particular furniture module 302). Moreover, each the furniture module 302 presented under a selection tab can correspond to a furniture module 302 unique to that corresponding selection tab. For example, the aforementioned focus space type arrangement can correspond to a furniture module 302 unique only to the selection tab labelled“workspace” (i.e., and not any of the selection tabs labelled“collaborative,”“meeting room” and“others”) whereas the aforementioned six-person arrangement can correspond to a furniture module 302 unique only to the selection tab labelled“meeting room” (i.e., and not any of the selection tabs labelled “workspace,”“collaborative” and“others”). In an exemplary operation, a user (e.g., potential renter) of an office unit can, using the first computer 102a, access the office layout arrangement platform 300 which can be carried/hosted by the host device 104. The user can, via the office layout arrangement platform 300, identify or access the floor plan associated with the office unit. The user can then perform a testfit based on the floor plan using the office layout arrangement platform 300. Specifically, the user can first make a selection at the user input section(s) 206 (e.g., in the form of selection tabs “workspace,” “collaborative,”“meeting room” and“others”). After the user has made a selection at the user input section(s) 206, the selected tab (e.g.,“workspace”) can be configured to present one or more user input sub-sections 208 (e.g., the aforementioned first type furniture module 302a, a second type furniture module 302b and a third type furniture module 302c) and a parameter entry portion 304 associated with each user input sub-section 208. The user can make one or more further selections from the presented user input sub-section 208 (e.g., the first type furniture module 302a which can correspond to an open work desk type arrangement under“workspace”) and specify, via the parameter entry portion 304 associated with the selected furniture module 302, the desired number (i.e., quantity) of that selected furniture module 302 (e.g., the user can specify that a total of five first type furniture modules 302a under “workspace” would be desired).

Subsequently, the user can, as an option, make one or more other selections at the user input section(s) 206 (e.g., one or both of “collaborative” and“meeting room”) and yet one or more further selections can be made by the user under the corresponding selected user input section(s) 206 (e.g., “meeting room” can be selected and the further selection can be the second type furniture module 302b which can be associated with a four-person sitting based round table arrangement under“meeting room”) and/or specify the desired number(s) of the selected furniture module(s) 302 (e.g., the user can specify that a total of seven second type furniture modules 302b under“meeting room” would be desired).

Earlier mentioned, based on the primary selection input signals, the secondary selection input signal(s) and/or the entry input signals, the output signals can be generated in the form of a graphical based presentation via the output interface screen 204 which can be visually perceived by a user via the display screen of a computer 102. Therefore, in the context of the above discussed exemplary operation, a selection made at the user input section(s) 206 can be associated with generating the primary selection input signal(s) (e.g., the generated primary selection input signal(s) can correspond to the selected tab labelled as“workspace” and/or“meeting room”). Moreover, a further selection made at user input sub-sections 208 can be associated with generating the secondary selection input signal(s) (e.g., the generated secondary selection input signal(s) can correspond to the selected first type furniture module 302a which can correspond to an open work desk type arrangement under “workspace” and/or the selected second type furniture module 302b which can be associated with a four-person sitting based round table arrangement under“meeting room”). Furthermore, an entry made via the parameter entry portion 304 can be associated with generating the entry input signal(s) (e.g., the generated entry input signal(s) can be indicative that a total of five first type furniture modules 302a under “workspace” and/or a total of seven second type furniture modules 302b under “meeting room” would be desired).

Based on the aforementioned primary selection input signals, the secondary selection input signal(s) and/or the entry input signals, the office layout arrangement platform 300 can be configured to produce an optimized layout 308 in accordance with the requirement(s) of the user. Specifically, the office layout arrangement platform 300 can be configured to automatically place the furniture module(s) 302 within the floor plan in a manner so as to, for example, optimize space usage within the office unit to produce the optimized layout 308. In one embodiment, a preview button 306 can be visually presented for selection by the user if the user elects to have a preview of the optimized layout 308.

Specifically, the optimized layout 308 can correspond to the aforementioned output signal(s) and the optimized layout 308 can, as shown in Fig. 3b, be previewed by the user via the output interface screen 204, according to an embodiment of the disclosure. In contrast, Fig. 3a shows an exemplary presentation/appearance of the output interface screen 204 prior to the optimized layout 308 being generated and previewed. Referring to Fig. 4, the office layout arrangement platform 300 can be configured to generate and present a results screen 400, according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

The results screen 400 can include a summary table 402 and a layout screen 404. The summary table 402 can be presented adjacent the layout screen 404.

The summary table 402 can correspond to a graphical display of a table itemizing the user requirements (i.e., as generated by a user using the user interface screen 202). For example, as shown, the input signal(s) generated by the user can be indicative that the user requires a quantity of ten open work desk type arrangements (i.e., under“workspace”), a quantity of one focus space type arrangement (i.e., under “workspace”) and nil four-person sitting based round table arrangement (i.e., under “meeting” - which refers to the aforementioned“meeting room”) etc.

The layout screen 404 can be configured to present the aforementioned optimized layout 308. In one example, the results screen 400 can be generated and displayed after the user is satisfied (e.g., which can be indicated by the user activating an affirmative button (not shown)) with the optimized layout 308 as previewed (e.g., by action of the user selecting the preview button 308). In this regard, it is appreciable that the aforementioned output signal(s) can correspond to one or both of the optimized layout 308 and the summary table 402.

In one embodiment, the office layout arrangement platform 300 can be configured such that its appearance is updatable/can be refreshed.

In one example, the office layout arrangement platform 300 can have an initial appearance displaying the user interface screen 202 and the output interface screen 204. After the user selects the preview button 308, appearance of the output interface screen 204 can be refreshed/updated so as to display a preview of the optimized layout 308.

In another example, the office layout arrangement platform 300 can have an initial appearance displaying the user interface screen 202 and the output interface screen 204. After the user activates the aforementioned affirmative button (e.g., which can be graphically presented as an“ok” dialogue box button), the initial appearance can be updated/refreshed so that the results screen 400 is displayed (i.e., initial appearance, based on the user interface screen 202 and the output interface screen 204, is replaced with a refreshed/updated appearance based on the results screen 400).

To put the foregoing concerning the platform 200 into perspective, it is appreciable that the present disclosure generally contemplates a platform 200 (which has also been earlier discussed in an exemplary context of an office layout arrangement platform 300) suitable for layout planning of a property unit (e.g., an office unit or an apartment unit). The property unit can be associated with a floor plan which can be representative of layout area of the property unit. Layout planning of the property unit can be by manner of planning layout using the floor plan. In this regard, the floor plan can be associated with a layout which can be arranged/specified in accordance with one or more user requirements.

The floor plan can be further associated with at least one pre-defined zone. The pre defined zone can be associated with at least one limit. In one embodiment, the limit(s) can correspond to one or both of physical area limitation and loading limitation.

The platform 200 can include a user interface screen 202 operable for generating at least one input signal. The input signal(s) can be indicative of at least one user requirement concerning the layout of the floor plan.

The platform 200 can further include an output interface screen 204 which can be configured to display at least one output signal. The output signal(s) can correspond to either at least one default output signal or at least one output signal indicative of user requirement.

Additionally, the platform 200 can be configured to determine whether the user requirement contravenes the limit associated with the pre-defined zone.

When it can be determined (i.e., by the platform 200) that the user requirement contravenes the limit associated with the pre-defined zone, the platform 200 can be configured to ignore the input signal(s) and generate at least one default output signal. Specifically, in one embodiment, when the input signal is indicative of user requirement which contravenes the physical area limitation and/or loading limitation associated with the pre-defined zone, the platform 200 can be configured to ignore the input signal and generate at least one default output signal corresponding to a suggested layout plan based on optimized furnishing arrangement for the pre- defined zone.

When it can be determined (i.e., by the platform 200) that the user requirement is within the limit associated with the pre-defined zone, the platform 200 can be configured to process the input signal(s) in a manner so as to generate at least one output signal indicative of user requirement. Specifically, in one embodiment, when the input signal is indicative of user requirement being within the at least one limit, the platform 200 can be configured to process the input signal in a manner so as to generate at least one output signal indicative of user requirement corresponding to an automatically generated layout plan which is in accordance with user requirement.

Moreover, in one embodiment, the layout area of the property unit can correspond to physical floor area of the property unit. The pre-defined zone can be further associated with an area (i.e., area of the pre-defined zone). The platform 200 can be configured to determine whether area of the pre-defined zone exceeds the layout area. The platform 200 can be further configured to either:

allow operation of the user interface screen 202 to generate the input signal(s), or impede the input signal(s) from being generated via the user interface screen 202 (e.g., the user may not be provided with an option/opportunity to generate the input signal(s) via the user interface screen 202). Specifically, in one embodiment, the platform 200 can be configured to impede the input signal(s) from being generated via the user interface screen 202 when it can be determined (e.g., by the platform 200) that physical area limitation has been contravened (i.e., area of the pre-defined zone exceeds the layout area). Moreover, the platform 200 can be configured to generate at least one output signal indicative of a default floorplan with suggested default layout when the physical area limitation has been contravened.

Conversely, when it can be determined (e.g., by the platform 200) that physical area limitation has yet been contravened (i.e., area of the pre-defined zone is determined to be within/not more than the layout area), the platform 200 can be configured to allow operation (i.e., by the user) of the user interface screen 202 to generate the input signal(s).

Referring to Fig. 5, a processing method 500 in association with the system 100 is shown, according to an embodiment of the disclosure. Specifically, the processing method 500 can be associated with the platform 200, according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

The processing method 500 can include a preliminary setup step 510, a user interface step 520 and an output step 530.

With regard to the preliminary setup step 510, a floor plan can be provided. The floor plan, as discussed earlier, can relate to, for example, an office unit (e.g., floor plan of an office unit). Moreover, the floor plan can be provided by, for example, the landlord of the office unit. Alternatively, the floor plan can be provided by a user (e.g., a renter) via the computer(s) 102. The floor plan can be carried by one or both of the host device 104 and the database(s) 106. The floor plan can be processed in a manner so as to determine/define/identify any one of, or any combination of, the following:

1 ) One or more dead space areas (i.e., restricted area(s)) within which furniture (i.e., one or more furniture modules 302) ought not to be placed.

2) The pre-defined zones within which one or more furniture modules 302 can be placed.

3) Classification of the pre-defined zone(s).

In this regard, in the preliminary setup step 510, the floor plan can be characterized based on dead space area(s), pre-defined zone(s) within which furniture can be placed and/or classification of the pre-defined zone(s). For example, the platform 200 can be configured to perform the process of characterizing the floor plan in a manner so as to produce at least one characterization signal.

Appreciably, the characterization signal(s) can correspond to/based on any one of, or any combination of, the following:

1 ) characterization of the floor plan based on dead space area(s).

2) characterization of the floor plan based on pre-defined zone(s) within which furniture can be placed

3) characterization of the floor plan based on classification of the pre-defined zone(s)

Characterization of the floor plan based on dead space area(s), pre-defined zone(s) within which furniture can be placed and classification of the pre-defined zone(s) will now be discussed in turn.

Concerning characterization of the floor plan based on dead space area(s) (i.e., one or more restricted areas), the floor plan, as earlier mentioned, can be associated with one or more default structural based parameters, one or more default settings and/or one or more pre-defined zones.

In one embodiment, the floor plan can be further associated with one or more“dead space areas” (i.e., area(s) within which no furniture modules 302 ought to be placed. In one example, in the context of the default structural based parameter(s), the subdividing wall(s), the access door(s) and/or the main entrance door can be considered to be dead space areas. In another example, in the context of the default setting(s), the toilet can be considered to be a dead space area. In yet another example, in the context of the pre-defined zone(s), the corridor(s) and the fire escape path(s) can be considered to be dead space areas.

In this regard, it is appreciable that the default structural based parameter(s), the default setting(s) and/or pre-defined zone(s) can be considered to be associable with one or more dead space areas within which no furniture modules 302 ought to be placed (e.g., due to safety concerns - specifically, so as not to obstruct a fire escape path and/or due to ease of traffic - specifically, furniture ought not to be placed near the main entrance so as not to obstruct human traffic in/out of the office unit).

Concerning characterization of the floor plan based on pre-defined zone(s) within which furniture can be placed, the floor plan, as mentioned earlier, can be associated with one or more pre-defined zones.

In one embodiment, the pre-defined zone(s) within which furniture can be placed can be identified (i.e., which can be characterized as“suitable zone(s)”) and the pre defined zone(s) not identified as such can, automatically, be treated as not suitable for placement of furniture (i.e., which can be characterized as“unsuitable zone(s)”). For example, the pre-defined zone associated with a workspace and the pre-defined zone associated with a collaborative space can be identified (i.e., characterized as) to be suitable zones within which one or more furniture modules 302 can be placed whereas the pre-defined zone associated with a fire escape path which has not been identified to be a suitable zone within which one or more furniture modules 302 can be placed can be automatically treated as (i.e., characterized as) an unsuitable zone.

Concerning characterization of the floor plan based on classification of the pre defined zone(s), the floor plan, as mentioned earlier can be associated with one or more pre-defined zones. Specifically, the present disclosure contemplates that the floor plan can be classified (i.e., demarcated) into one or more pre-defined zones.

Further earlier mentioned, one pre-defined zone can be associated with at least one workspace, another pre-defined zone can be associated with at least one collaborative space and yet another pre-defined zone can be associated with at least one meeting room. The present disclosure contemplates that such pre-defined zones (e.g.,“workspace,”“collaborative” and“meeting room”) can be correlated to the aforementioned furniture module(s) 302.

Specifically, as mentioned earlier, each user input section (e.g., the first to fourth user input sections 206a/206b/206c/206d) can be configured to present one or more furniture modules 302 unique to the corresponding pre-defined zone and/or one or more parameter entry portions 304.

In one example, where the first user input section 206a corresponds to“workspace” and includes a plurality of furniture modules 302, the furniture modules 302 associated the first user input section 206a can be unique to the pre-defined zone associated with“workspace”.

Therefore, only furniture module(s) 302 associated with a user input section 206 (e.g., in the form of a selection tab) unique to a corresponding pre-defined zone can be accessed for placement in that corresponding pre-defined zone.

In one specific example, the plurality of furniture modules 302 associated with the selection tab“workspace” can only be accessed for placement in relation to the pre defined zone associated with “workspace” (i.e., and not in relation to other pre defined zones such as“collaborative,”“meeting room” and“others”) whereas the plurality of furniture modules 302 associated with the selection tab“meeting room” can only be accessed for placement in relation to the pre-defined zone associated with“meeting room” (i.e., and not in relation to other pre-defined zones such as “workspace,”“collaborative” and“others”). In another specific example, where a user defines, via a parameter entry portion 304 associated with a particular furniture module 302 (e.g., the open work desk type arrangement under the“workspace” selection tab), a desired quantity (e.g., five) of that particular furniture module 302 (e.g., the open work desk type arrangement under the “workspace” selection tab), the platform 200 can be configured to automatically arrange the defined quantity of that particular furniture module 302 within the corresponding pre-defined zone which is uniquely associated with the selection tab (e.g., five open work desk type arrangement under the“workspace” selection tab can be automatically arranged within the pre-defined zone associated with“workspace”).

In this regard, it is appreciable that the aforementioned output signal(s) can be generated based on a combination of the input signal(s) and the characterization signal(s), according to an embodiment of the disclosure. Specifically, the input signal(s) can, for example, be processed (e.g., by the platform 200) based on the characterized floor plan (i.e., the characterization signal(s)) in a manner so as to produce at least one output signal. The output signal(s) can correspond to a visually perceivable (i.e., via the output interface screen 204) layout plan generated in accordance with user requirement.

Generally, the host device 104 can carry a programming software (e.g., an AutoCAD based program and/or a Python based program) which can be used for preliminary processing of the floor plan in connection with the preliminary setup step 510. In one exemplary scenario, the host device 104 can process a floor plan (e.g., submitted by a landlord in JPEG format, AutoCAD based format and/or PDF based format) of an office unit by manner of checking (e.g., using an AutoCAD based program) accuracy of floor plan scale by, for example, verifying dimension associated with existing access doors. The floor plan can be associated with a layout area (i.e., indicative of overall floor area of an office unit). Unnecessary information such as electrical layout etc. can, as an option, be removed. The layout associated with the office unit can be further processed so that clear demarcation (e.g., based on the subdividing walls and//or access doors) can be presented. Specifically, the subdividing walls and/or access doors (i.e., default structural based parameter(s)) can be presented. The floor plan can be further processed so as to set up a reception space near the main entrance (i.e., the default setting(s)). The floor plan can be further processed in a manner such that one or more zones can be pre-defined (i.e., one or more pre-defined zones such as “workspace(s)” and “meeting room(s)”). Moreover, pre-defined zones can be configured based on local and/or international building codes (e.g., fire escape path defined from one access door to another can be associated with a path width of 1.2 meters). The present disclosure contemplates that coordinates (e.g., x, y coordinates) and/or dimension (e.g., aspect ratio, length, breadth and/or area) of one or more pre-defined zones can, as an option, be extracted and recorded. Moreover, the present disclosure contemplates that the floor plan can, as an option, be further processed by prioritizing the pre-defined zone(s) (i.e., each pre-defined zone can be associated with a priority). For example, a pre-defined zone with a bigger area can be associated with a higher priority as compared to another pre-defined zone with a comparatively smaller area. In one embodiment, a pre-defined zone (e.g., having a bigger area) associated with a higher priority can be automatically populated with one or more furniture modules 302 relative to another pre-defined zone (e.g., having a smaller area) associated with a lower priority (i.e., the pre-defined zones can be configured to be populated based on descending order of priority).

As an option, a process of integrity check (e.g., debugging) can be performed on the processed floor plan to ensure that the processed floor plan is substantially free of errors. In one example, a test run can be performed based on random inputs (e.g., random quantity of one or more furniture modules 302) to, for example, ensure that no overlap with the building structure occurs. In another example, the total area of the pre-defined zones can be calculated and compared with the layout area (i.e., indicative of overall floor area) to, for example, determine whether the total area of the pre-defined zones exceeds the layout area.

In the event the process of integrity check is indicative of one or more errors in the processed floor plan, the platform 200 can be configured to impede further user entry via the user interface screen 202. For example, in the event where the total area of the pre-defined zones exceeds the layout area, the platform 200 can be configured to generate the output signal(s) indicative of a default floorplan with suggested default layout (i.e., without further input from a user using the platform 200). In one example, a suggested default layout can correspond to a reference layout as used by a previous tenant (i.e., a previous renter) or a reference layout as suggested by the landlord.

In the event the process of integrity check indicates that he processed floor plan is substantially error free, a user can use the platform to perform the task of“testfit”.

The processed floor plan can be carried by one or both of the host device 104 and the database(s) 106, and can be accessed by a user (e.g., a renter) via the platform 200, using a computer 102 (e.g., a first user using the aforementioned first computer 102a).

With regard to the user interface step 520, a user can use the platform 200, as visually presented on the display screen of a computer 102, to perform the task of “testfit”. Specifically, the user can, using the platform 200, retrieve/access the processed floor plan. Moreover, the user can, via the user interface screen 202, generate the aforementioned input signal(s).

In an earlier mentioned specific example, a user can define, via a parameter entry portion 304 associated with a particular furniture module 302 (e.g., the open work desk type arrangement under the “workspace” selection tab), a desired quantity (e.g., five) of that particular furniture module 302 (e.g., the open work desk type arrangement under the“workspace” selection tab). Therefore, the input signals generated can be indicative of a desired quantity (e.g., five) of that particular furniture module 302 (e.g., the open work desk type arrangement under the “workspace” selection tab). The platform 200 can be configured to process the input signals by manner of, for example, automatically arranging/populating the defined quantity of that particular furniture module 302 within the corresponding pre-defined zone which is uniquely associated with the selection tab (e.g., five open work desk type arrangement under the“workspace” selection tab can be automatically arranged/populated within the pre-defined zone associated with“workspace”).

The present disclosure contemplates that a furniture module 302 can be associated with one or more physical dimension/attributes (i.e., length, breadth, area and/or loading weight). In one example, the aforementioned open work desk type arrangement can be associated with a physical dimension of 1.85 meters in length, 1.6 meters in breadth and an area of 2.96 square meters. In another example, the aforementioned four-person sitting based bullet table arrangement can be associated with a physical dimension of 3 meters in length, 3.5 meters in breadth and an area of 10.5 square meters.

Thus, it is appreciable that there can be a limit associated with the quantity of furniture modules 302 which can be arranged/populated (i.e., laid-out) within a pre defined zone. In one example, there can be a physical area limitation. Specifically, if the pre defined zone associated with“workspace” is associated with a physical dimension of an area of 90 square meters, the quantity of open work desk type arrangement (i.e., each being associated with a physical dimension of an area of 2.96 square meters) which can be arranged/populated within the pre-defined zone associated with “workspace” would be thirty or less.

In another example, there can be a loading limitation. Specifically, there could be a maximum loading limit associated with the pre-defined zone(s) (e.g., based on local and/or international building codes). Therefore, there can be a limit as to the quantity of the furniture module(s) 302 which can be arranged/populated within a pre-defined zone due to the maximum loading limit. The present disclosure contemplates that the platform 200 can be configured to determine whether one or more issues can be identified in generating the output signal(s) (i.e., determine whether the output signal(s) can be appropriately generated based on the input signal(s)).

Specifically, the platform 200 can be configured to determine whether one or more issues can be identified (i.e., in generating the output signal(s)) by manner of determining whether the desired quantity of furniture module(s) 302 can fit within a pre-defined zone based on, for example, one or both of:

A) Physical area limitation; and

B) Loading limitation.

Where, via the platform 200, one or more issues can be identified (e.g., in view of physical area limitation and/or loading limitation being contravened), output signal(s) corresponding to default output signal(s) can be generated and communicated to the computer(s) 102 (e.g., the first computer 102a). The default output signal(s) can, for example, be generated by manner of optimization based processing (e.g., the platform 200 can be configured to perform the task of optimization based processing). Optimization based processing can, in one example, be based on the maximum feasible quantity of furniture module(s) 302 which can fit within a pre defined zone (e.g., a maximum of thirty furniture module(s) 302, each having an area of 2.96 square meters, can possibly fit within a pre-defined zone having an area of 90 square meters). Optimization based processing can, in another example, be based on the maximum feasible quantity of furniture module(s) 302 which can fit within a pre-defined zone given an additional consideration of buffer spacing between one furniture module 302 and another furniture module 302 (e.g., the maximum quantity of furniture module(s) 302, each having an area of 2.96 square meters, which can possibly fit within a pre-defined zone having an area of 90 square meters would be less than thirty if buffer spacing of, for example, 10% is to be considered for the purpose of, for example, facilitating ample commuting space).

In this regard, it is appreciable that the default output signal(s) can, for example, correspond to a suggested layout plan which can be based on an optimized arrangement (e.g., based on maximum feasible quantity of furniture module(s) 302 which can fit within one or more pre-defined zones and/or based on maximum feasible quantity of furniture module(s) 302, given an additional consideration of buffer spacing, which can fit within one or more pre-defined zones) of the furniture module(s) 302 within one or more pre-defined zones. Therefore, the optimized arrangement can relate to an optimized furnishing arrangement within one or more pre-defined zones.

Where, via the platform 200, no issues/no substantial issues are identified (e.g., the user requirement(s) being within physical area limitation and/or loading limitation), the output signal(s) indicative of user requirement(s) (i.e., per the input signal(s) as generated by a user using the user interface screen 202) can be generated and communicated to the computer(s) 102 (e.g., the first computer 102a). The output signal(s) indicative of user requirement(s) can, for example, be generated by manner of optimal spacing based processing (e.g., the platform 200 can be configured to perform the task of optimization based processing). Optimal spacing based processing can, in one example, be based on spreading the arrangement of furniture module(s) 302 in a spatially even manner within a pre-defined zone. Optimal spacing based processing can, in another example, be based on arranging the furniture module(s) 302 within a region (i.e., either in a spatially even manner or by manner of considering, as discussed earlier, buffer spacing) within a pre-defined zone.

In this regard, it is appreciable that the output signal(s) indicative of user requirement(s) can correspond to an automatically generated layout plan (i.e., by manner of the aforementioned optimal spacing based processing) in which, for example, the quantity of one or more furniture module 302 can be automatically arranged within a pre-defined zone. For example, an automatically generated layout plan based on automatic arrangement of the furniture module(s) 302 within the pre- defined zone(s) can relate to automatic arrangement of furniture module(s) 302 without further user intervention as to how the furniture module(s) 302 should be arranged within the pre-defined zone(s) after the user has specified (i.e., user requirement(s)), by manner of generating the input signal(s), the quantity and/or type of furniture module(s) (e.g., the first type furniture module 302a, the second type furniture module 302b and/or the third type furniture module 302c) which should be arranged/placed within the pre-defined zone(s). Appreciably, the automatically generated layout plan is in accordance with user requirement(s).

With regard to the output step 530, the output signal(s), as mentioned earlier, can be displayed via the output interface screen 204 as visually perceivable by the user via the display screen of the computer(s) 102. As mentioned earlier, the output signals(s) communicated can correspond to default output signal(s) or output signal(s) indicative of user requirements, according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

Moreover, earlier mentioned, in one embodiment, in the event where the total area of the pre-defined zones exceeds the layout area, the platform 200 can be configured to generate the output signal(s) indicative of a default floorplan with suggested default layout (i.e., without further input from a user using the platform 200).

In this regard, the present disclosure contemplates that output signal(s) communicated can correspond to default output signal(s), output signal(s) indicative of user requirements or output signal(s) indicative of a default floorplan with suggested default layout.

To put the foregoing concerning the processing method 500 in perspective, it is appreciable that the present disclosure generally contemplates a processing method 500 which can be suitable for facilitating layout planning of a property unit (e.g., an office unit or an apartment unit). The property unit can be associated with a floor plan which can be representative of layout area of the property unit. Layout planning of the property unit can be by manner of planning layout using the floor plan. In this regard, the floor plan can be associated with a layout which can be arranged/specified in accordance with one or more user requirements. The floor plan can be further associated with at least one pre-defined zone. The pre defined zone can be associated with at least one limit (e.g., one or both of the aforementioned physical area limitation and loading limitation).

The processing method 500 can include characterizing the floor plan (i.e., for producing the characterization signal(s)).

The processing method 500 can further include receiving at least one input signal generated (i.e., using the user interface screen 202) by a user performing the task of layout planning. The input signal can be indicative of at least one user requirement.

The processing method 500 can yet further include processing the input signal(s) based on the characterized floor plan (i.e., corresponding to the aforementioned characterization signal(s)) in a manner so as to produce at least one output signal (e.g., output signal indicative of user requirement corresponding to an automatically generated layout plan which is in accordance with user requirement). The output signal(s) can correspond to a visually perceivable (e.g., visually perceivable by the user via the output interface screen 204) layout plan generated in accordance with user requirement.

It should be further appreciated by the person skilled in the art that variations and combinations of features described above, not being alternatives or substitutes, may be combined to form yet further embodiments.

In one example, as shown in Fig. 6a and Fig. 6b, the furniture module(s) 302 can be visually presented based on one or more exemplary presentation schemes, according to an embodiment of the disclosure. As shown in Fig. 6a, the furniture module(s) 302 can be presented based on a first exemplary presentation scheme 600a where a plan view (e.g., based on line drawings) of each of the first type furniture module 302a, the second type furniture module 302b and the third type furniture module 302c can be presented, according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

As shown in Fig. 6b, the furniture module(s) 302 can be presented based on a second exemplary presentation scheme 600a where a pictorial view (e.g., based on photographs and/or artist impressions) of each of the first type furniture module 302a, the second type furniture module 302b and the third type furniture module 302c can be presented, according to an embodiment of the disclosure. In another embodiment, the furniture module(s) 302 can be presented based on a combination of the first and second exemplary presentation schemes 600a/600b. For example, each of the first type furniture module 302a, the second type furniture module 302b and the third type furniture module 302c can be presented based on a combination of the first and second exemplary presentation schemes 600a/600b, according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

In the foregoing manner, various embodiments of the disclosure are described for addressing at least one of the foregoing disadvantages. Such embodiments are intended to be encompassed by the following claims, and are not to be limited to specific forms or arrangements of parts so described and it will be apparent to one skilled in the art in view of this disclosure that numerous changes and/or modification can be made, which are also intended to be encompassed by the following claims.

Claims

Claim(s)

1. A platform suitable facilitating for layout planning of a property unit which is associable with a floor plan, the floor plan being associable with layout area of the property unit and being further associable with at least one pre-defined zone which is associable with at least one limit, the platform comprising:

a user interface screen operable for generating at least one input signal, the input signal being indicative of at least one user requirement concerning the layout of the floor plan; and

an output interface screen configurable to display at least one output signal corresponding to one of:

at least one default output signal, and

at least one output signal indicative of user requirement

wherein the platform is configurable to determine whether the user requirement contravenes the limit associated with the pre-defined zone,

wherein when the platform determines that the user requirement contravenes the limit associated with the pre-defined zone, the platform is configurable to ignore the input signal and generate at least one default output signal, and

wherein when the platform determines that the user requirement is within the limit associated with the pre-defined zone, the platform is configurable to process the input signal in a manner so as to generate at least one output signal indicative of user requirement.

2. The platform as in claim 1 ,

wherein the pre-defined zone is associable at least one limit corresponding to at least one of:

physical area limitation, and

loading limitation, and

wherein when the input signal is indicative of user requirement which contravenes at least one of the physical area limitation and loading limitation associated with the pre-defined zone, the platform is configurable to ignore the input signal and generate at least one default output signal corresponding to a suggested layout plan based on optimized furnishing arrangement for the pre-defined zone, and

wherein when the input signal is indicative of user requirement within the at least one limit, the platform is configurable to process the input signal in a manner so as to generate at least one output signal indicative of user requirement corresponding to an automatically generated layout plan which is in accordance with user requirement.

3. The platform as in claim 1 ,

wherein the layout area of the property unit corresponds to physical floor area of the property unit, the pre-defined zone being further associable with an area and limit associated with the pre-defined zone corresponds to physical area limitation of the pre-defined zone,

wherein the platform is configurable to determine whether area of the pre-defined zone exceeds the layout area and one of:

allow operation of the user interface screen to generate the input signal, and

impede the input signal from being generated via the user interface screen.

4. The platform as in claim 3,

wherein the platform is configurable to:

impede the input signal from being generated via the user interface screen when the platform determines that physical area limitation has been contravened in that area of the pre-defined zone exceeds the layout area, and

generate at least one output signal indicative of a default floorplan with suggested default layout when the physical area limitation has been contravened,

wherein the platform is configurable to allow operation of the user interface screen to generate the input signal when the platform determines that physical area limitation has yet been contravened in that area of the pre defined zone is determined to be within the layout area.

5. A processing method suitable facilitating layout planning of a property unit associable with a floor plan, the floor plan being associable with layout area of a property unit and being further associable with at least one pre-defined zone which is associable with at least one limit, the processing method comprising:

characterizing the floor plan;

receiving at least one input signal generated by a user performing the task of layout planning, the input signal being indicative of user requirement; processing the input signal based on the characterized floor plan in a manner so as to produce at least one output signal, the output signal corresponding to a visually perceivable layout plan generated in accordance with user requirement.