Using a dynamic medium of “interviews” and “podcasts”, students will feature experts in a topic relating on the AEC field, formulate questions and elaborate theoretical concepts and principles to support their studio proposals.


Syllabus

The BIM and Smart Construction Theory 

MaCAD ARCHITECTURAL THEORY FOR BIM TOOLS SEMINAR

The fast immersion of Advanced Computation Applications and smart constructions into architectural praxis are profoundly transforming the way architecture is conceived, designed, developed, constructed, and inhabited. These developments are not only challenging traditional theoretical frameworks but also revealing the need to formulate and construct novel concepts and principles. This seminar proposes to inquire about this emerging paradigm.

 


Image generated with AI, Mid Journey Bot BOT on Dec. 16, 2023 at 2:29 PM. Prompt: Architectural students interviewing experts in podcast – @mtbm.

The first edition of this course will inquire into the notion of tools in current architectural praxis from an operational theory perspective. The class will investigate the famous statement by Cedric Price “If technology is the answer, then what is the question? Starting by examining historical developments of fundamental representational tools for architecture, students will investigate recent developments with an emphasis on some aspects related to smart construction and Building Information Modeling | BIM and inquire about their origins, aims, applications, and future projections.

Using a dynamic medium of “interviews” and “podcasts”, students will feature experts in a topic, formulate questions and elaborate theoretical concepts and principles to support their studio proposals. Finally, students will speculate about the impact of these tools and formulate a novel theoretical framework from a critical perspective for the architectural and construction disciplines of the XXI Century.

Learning Objectives 

At course completion the student will:

  • Identify, select, and analyse digital tools used in architectural, engineering and construction praxis related to smart constructions and BIM.
  • Review theoretical and practical precedents, as well as state-of-the-art for smart constructions and BIM.
  • Develop theoretical arguments related to BIM and Smart Constructions to support the student’s studio projects.
  • Conduct research on a specific topic by following a scientific methodology that includes problem formulation, questions, and hypothesis. 
  • Formulate an interview for a guest expert with a clear script that includes an introduction, questions, conclusions, and links.
  • Conduct a podcast interview as a relevant research method for qualitative research techniques involving individual interviews with experts in BIM Tools.
  • Publish podcasts as a valuable skill to communicate, organize, and deliver knowledge to a wider audience.

Faculty


Faculty Assistants


Projects from this course

Better Data Frameworks: What Pixar Can Teach the AEC Industry

Challenge The available Building Information Modeling (BIM) applications in the AEC industry help create geometry and add meta-data. However, the files generated by this software are neither readable nor editable by any other application. Additionally, the metadata added to geometry lives as disconnected copies in several models. These issues lock AEC companies to particular software … Read more

AI Integration in BIM Workflows

Project Statement : The integration of AI with Building Information Modeling (BIM) aims to overcome inefficiencies, communication gaps, and limited creativity in architecture. Using tools like Grasshopper, Dynamo, and Natural Language Processing alongside BIM standards, architects can automate tasks, enhance collaboration, and drive unprecedented efficiency and innovation in the industry. Thesis : Integrating AI with … Read more

BIM Unleashed: Powering Smart Cities and Overcoming Urban Challenges

Embark on a journey into the realm of urban innovation with “BIM Unleashed: Powering Smart Cities and Overcoming Urban Challenges.” In this captivating exploration, we delve into the transformative potential of Building Information Modeling (BIM) as it revolutionizes the landscape of smart cities. At the outset, we confront the pressing issues highlighted in our problem … Read more

BIM and the Sustainable development of affordable communities for informal settlements in Egypt

Abstract Informal settlements across all of Egypt are characterized by complex socio-economic situations aggravated by the immense size of the population and its rapid growth. As a result of lack of building regulations, extreme poverty and continuous need for expansion, the rise of uncontrolled informal settlements remains a significant challenge for Egypt. Our research explores … Read more

Becoming architect in the age of BIM

source: Beatriz Colomina & Mark Wigley: Are We Human? (vipergallery.org)

The Embedded, (or Empowered) Architect with Phillip Bernstein (interview date 08.03.2024)  and Kristen Broberg (interview date 11.03.2024) Topic: As disruptive technologies become increasingly integrated into the construction industry worldwide, the implications for architectural education systems will be significant. The rapid transformation on a global scale necessitates a reassessment of pedagogical approaches to ensure that both … Read more

BIM Based Asset Management and Life cycle Analysis

Different Approaches for extracting/Regeneration of BIM Data Different Approaches of BIM Data integration for Life Cycle Analysis BIM-Based Asset Management and Life Cycle Analysis involve utilizing Life Cycle Assessment (LCA), a scientific methodology for quantifying potential environmental impacts. In the realm of buildings, LCA is standardized by the European standard EN 15978. While this standard … Read more

The Future of Generative Design – Enhanced with BIM

The Tools In the world of Architecture, Engineering, and Construction (AEC), designers have access to a plethora of tools, ideologies, and software to make their visions a reality. Within this vast space of options for designers to choose from, there are more specifically, tools that deal with Generative Design and Building Information Modeling (BIM). Software … Read more