16212 Digital Design and Construction 1

This subject examines 3D design coordination, construction modelling and documentation. It investigates the role of the project manager and construction contractor in digital design and construction, and explores the knowledge they require to effectively manage, supervise and participate in construction projects enabled by building information modelling technologies. The subject familiarises students with synchronous and asynchronous design communication and collaboration tools and their impact on building design and production. Students develop an understanding of the extent to which information modelling systems facilitate the generation, representation, rationalisation, materialisation and fabrication of design artefacts in collaborative and multidisciplinary design settings. Students are therefore provided with a foundation in 3D modelling principles and procedures before developing skills in the coordination of the design work of project team members using linked models. Students develop an understanding of how to read and coordinate architectural, structural and service design models; undertake 3D model reviews and interference checking; and learn how to model construction details and produce electronic construction documentation. Technical and communication skills are practised in different digital environments, including computing lab, digital workshop and interactive construction environment. Current issues surrounding the use of building information modelling in construction are discussed.

Typical availability

Autumn semester, City campus