Computer Applications in Construction
CE52200
Credit Hours:
3Learning Objective:
Each module has a set of Outcomes, they are as follows:
- By the end of Module 1, you will be able to:
- Explain the fundamental principles of BIM
- List BIM applications in construction and their corresponding benefits
- Create BIM models that include major building elements
- Develop Construction documents through BIM
- By the end of Module 2, you will be able to:
- Explain the fundamental concepts of 4D and nD modeling, and clast avoidance and clast detection
- Conduct clash detection to review and analyze BIM models
- Create 4D, 5D, and nD models
- Conduct quantity takeoff and estimate cost
- Develop and analyze construction plans.
- Use spreadsheet and scheduling tools
- By the end of Module 3, you will be able to:
- Create spreadsheet applications for construction project management tasks
- Develop database applications for digital construction inspection
- Develop programs in VBA (to work with Spreadsheet) and Python
- Develop natural language processing and machine learning algorithms for construction applications
Description:
This course is part of a master study of the current computer usage in the construction industry; computer applications in construction; and commercially available software applications. Particularly, this course is designed for students who are interested in building information modeling (BIM) and its applications in construction. It provides essential knowledge and skills of the key concepts in BIM, namely object-oriented modeling, parametric modeling, and central database. It enables students to appreciate the benefits of BIM and understand how BIM changes the practice in the architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) industry. It also prepares students to use commercial software packages for various construction management tasks. The three course modules are as follows:
- Module 1: Fundamentals of Building Information Modeling
- Module 2: BIM in Construction
- Module 3: Computer Applications of Artificial Intelligence and e-Construction
Topics Covered:
This course is composed of three modules:
- Module 1: Fundamentals of building information modeling
- BIM definition, history, and authoring process
- BIM modeling - solid modeling, parametric modeling, BIM central database
- BIM tools and construction documentation
- Module 2: BIM in Construction
- Model review and clash detection
- 4D and nD modeling
- BIM-based construction project planning and control
- Module 3: Computer Applications of Artificial Intelligence and e-Construction
- Advanced Spreadsheet applications
- Database
- AI and machine learning
Prerequisites:
None
Applied / Theory:
70/30
Web Address:
https://purdue.brightspace.com
Homework:
There are seven homework assignments that count 20% for the final grade. There are thirteen lab assignments that count for 30% of the final grade
Projects:
- The Term Project consists of two projects, with a three-phase approach. The first two phases focus on the first project. Phase 3 is dedicated to the second project.
- Each phase has its own goal, objectives, deliverables (submissions), and due dates, and will be graded separately.
- You will find a submission link in weeks 5, 10, and 15 for each specific phase due during those weeks. It is assigned at the start of the course
- In this Term Project you will:
- Apply BIM concepts and skills learned in this class to develop a model for a two-story building.
- Develop communication skills: presentations and technical reports
- Apply object-oriented modeling, parametric modeling, and BIM as a central database concept and use BIM authoring tool to complete the design of a building project.
Exams:
There are fourteen quizzes throughout the course. No comprehensive exams.
Textbooks:
None
Computer Requirements:
A Windows computer with Spreadsheet, database, and BIM software packages. Students can choose whatever software packages they prefer. However, we recommend Excel for Spreadsheet, Excel/Access for database, and Revit for BIM.