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CAD and Building Science

  • Module code: CE5103
  • Year: 2018/9
  • Level: 5
  • Credits: 30
  • Pre-requisites: None
  • Co-requisites: None

Summary

This module introduces you to computer-aided design (the current AutoCAD version) and provides opportunities to gain practice under guidance of CAD and REVIT in order that you may develop proficiency in its use. You will also gain an understanding of the fundamentals of structural behaviour of common building elements and a working knowledge of environmental science principles and material properties. The concept of BIM (Building Information Modelling) will also be introduced during this module. The module is taught by lectures and practical sessions and typically assessed by a design project of practical exercise and individual portfolio which must include structural calculations.

Aims

  • To develop the students' knowledge of building materials.
  • To provide students with an understanding of the fundamentals of structural behaviour.
  • To enable students to understand the principles of computer aided design, and gain proficiency in its use.
  • To introduce the concept of BIM and to consider practical examples of its implementation.

Learning outcomes

On successful completion of the module, students will be able to:

  • retrieve, edit and save existing and new 2D computer generated drawings and be able to produce 2D views of basic 3D models using both CAD & REVIT;
  • demonstrate understanding of the principles and practical applications of BIM;
  • demonstrate understanding of commonly used building materials and competently identify their appropriate application; and
  • demonstrate understanding of the structural properties of building materials and be able to accurately assess simple structural matters and advise on suitable proposals

Curriculum content

  • Current AutoCAD version
  • Material and structural properties of common building materials
  • Structural performance of common building components
  • Principles of BIM
  • Thermal and acoustic properties of materials and how these relate to the building envelope
  • Lighting requirements of buildings
  • Production, editing and saving of 2D CAD drawings
  • Production, editing and saving of 3D CAD models
  • Evaluation, testing, specification, performance and potential for failure of common building materials
  • Calculation of structural forces, including section properties, material properties, bending stresses, compression and buckling
  • Analytical and critical thinking
  • Preparation and drafting of practice-oriented reports
  • Use of industry standard software packages
  • Ability to manage time and work effort efficiently and effectively

Teaching and learning strategy

The module will be taught by lectures to introduce topics and the concepts involved and to provide an overall demonstration of techniques. In view of the nature of some of the work students will also participate in practical guided and self-guided workshops. IT workshop sessions will be a mix of set exercises and tests. Tutorial sessions and exercise will test understanding throughout the year.

Breakdown of Teaching and Learning Hours

Definitive UNISTATS Category Indicative Description Hours
Scheduled learning and teaching activities Lectures (presentation) Tutorials (small group) Workshops (large group) 24 12 66
Guided independent study Applied reading, preparation for lectures, tutorials, site work and surveys, preparation and completion of assessments 198
Total (number of credits x 10) 300

Assessment strategy

The learning outcomes will be assessed 100% by in-course summative assessment. There will be a portfolio of 3 problem assignments (total of 2,200 words), individual design coursework comprising a 3,000 words report supported by a selection of 2D and 3D drawings using REVIT and a full laboratory report of 1,600 words.

Formative feedback will be given during tutorials which will help towards building up a quality and realistic submission which will be marked summative. Students will be encouraged to make use of technology enhanced learning (TEL) tools to present and showcase their work. Students will be encouraged to seek one-to-one meetings under the personal tutor scheme (PTS) for immediate and detailed formative feedback before submitting the coursework. 

Students are encouraged throughout the module to attend the SASC (Faculty of SEC Academic Success Centre). ​SASC helps with academic skills such as report writing, presentations, note taking, time management, revision, referencing and mathematical skills.  Students are offered assistance and advice on draft assignments prior to submission.

Mapping of Learning Outcomes to Assessment Strategy (Indicative)

Learning Outcome Assessment Strategy
1. retrieve, edit and save existing and new 2D computer generated drawings and be able to produce 2D views of basic 3D models using both CAD & REVIT; Individual design coursework
2. Demonstrate an understanding of commonly used building materials and identify their appropriate application Individual design coursework / Portfolio of problem assignment/ Full laboratory report
3. Have an understanding of the structural properties of building materials and be able to assess simple structural matters and advise on suitable proposals Individual design coursework / Portfolio of problem assignment/ Full laboratory report
4. Demonstrate an understanding of the principles and practical applications of BIM Individual design coursework

Elements of Assessment

Description of Assessment Definitive UNISTATS Categories Percentage
Portfolio of problem assignments Coursework 30%
Individual design coursework Coursework 50%
Full laboratory report Coursework 20%
Total (to equal 100%) 100%

Achieving a pass

It IS NOT a requirement that any element of assessment is passed separately in order to achieve an overall pass for the module.

Bibliography core texts

Adams, T. (2016). Sound materials: A compendium of sound absorbing materials for architecture and design.

Chapman, J. (2017). Routledge Handbook of Sustainable Product Design. Florence: Taylor and Francis.

Garber, R. (2014). BIM Design Realising the Creative Potential of Building Information Modelling (AD Smart). Hoboken: Wiley.

Lyons, A. (2014). Materials for architects and builders (5th ed.). London: Routledge

Bibliography recommended reading

Allen, E. And Iano, J. (2013). Fundamentals of building construction: Materials and methods, 6th ed.

Briscoe, D. (2015). Beyond BIM: Architecture Information Modeling. Florence: Taylor and Francis.

Holzer, D. (2016). The BIM Manager's Handbook: Guidance for Professionals in Architecture, Engineering and Construction. Chicester: John Wiley & Sons, Incorporated.

Yudina, A. (2016). Lumitecture: Illuminating interiors for designers and architects. London: Thames and Hudson.

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