Building Information Modeling

The course is concerned specifically with the utilization of Building Information Modelling (BIM) technology. The aim of the course is to give students a practical, hands-on introduction to BIM and related computer-based techniques for the documentation and modelling of designed structures. The course will be focusing on the processes involved in developing a full 3D design object model, not for the purpose of visualization alone, but more importantly as a tool for understanding and documenting how a proposed building design fits together and how it will perform during use. We will be exploring the principles of component modelling, and the process of assembling those components to produce a design model from which traditional documentation (such as plans, elevations and sections) can be derived. From there, we will explore technologies that allow a BIM model to be exported and subsequently imported in to a range of design analysis packages. Several lectures will be delivered by guests from industry, affording an opportunity to understand the technology from that perspective.