Understanding Shaft Behavior and Limitations in ArkDesign.AI
Shafts in ArkDesign.AI function as specialized core components that support vertical building systems such as mechanical equipment, utilities, and custom circulation elements that do not align with standard stair or elevator configurations. Understanding how shafts behave—and why certain restrictions exist—is essential for creating coordinated, code-compliant, and buildable designs.
What Happens When an Area Becomes a Shaft
When an enclosed area is designated as a shaft, the system converts it into a fixed core element. Similar to stairs and elevators, a shaft’s dimensions become locked once it is created. This means:
- Walls cannot be modified individually
- The shaft cannot be resized or reshaped
- It can only be moved as a complete unit
This fixed behavior ensures that shafts remain consistent across all building levels, preserving the vertical alignment required for structural and mechanical systems.
Why Shafts Have Fixed Dimensions
ArkDesign.AI applies these restrictions to maintain vertical coordination and prevent design conflicts. Shafts must support continuous systems running from floor to floor—including ducts, piping, equipment, or custom vertical circulation. Any dimensional change would break this continuity and create conflicts with:
- Structural grids
- Mechanical and electrical routing
- Fire protection requirements
- Vertical system alignments
By locking the shaft dimensions, the platform protects the integrity of these systems throughout the building.
How Shafts Are Created
Shaft creation follows a structured two-step process:
- Define the enclosed area using standard wall-drawing tools
- Convert the area into a shaft using the left-panel designation controls
This workflow allows flexible shaping during early design, but locks the configuration once the area is formally designated as a shaft.
How to Modify an Existing Shaft
Because shafts must maintain strict consistency, they cannot be directly edited. When changes are needed, the modification process follows these steps:
- Delete the existing shaft
- Adjust wall geometry or area shape using standard editing tools
- Recreate the shaft using the shaft designation
This ensures all changes are intentional and coordinated with other building systems.
Strategic Uses of Shafts in Building Design
Shafts are powerful tools for accommodating:
- Custom or oversized elevator systems
- HVAC risers and mechanical equipment stacks
- Utility coordination zones for plumbing or electrical
- Specialized systems such as trash chutes or service corridors
These elements often require non-standard dimensions that do not match predefined stair or elevator modules, making shafts an ideal solution.
Professional Recommendation
Use shafts for systems that require vertical consistency but fall outside typical core components. Because shafts cannot be resized after creation, carefully evaluate mechanical, structural, and equipment requirements before finalizing their dimensions. Early planning ensures proper coordination and avoids the need for repeated deletions and recreations.
