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Universitat Internacional de Catalunya

Introduction to BIM

Introduction to BIM
3
15313
4
First semester
op
Main language of instruction: Catalan

Other languages of instruction: English, Spanish

Teaching staff

Introduction

The Building Information Modelling (BIM) methodology transforms how buildings and infrastructure are designed, built, and managed. This course aims to provide students with a knowledge of BIM, from the fundamental principles to its application in the life cycle of an architectural project.

Throughout the course, students will learn to work with three-dimensional models enriched with information, allowing them to approach design projects with greater precision, coordination, and efficiency. In addition, they will become familiar with the main BIM software tools (Revit and Naviswork) used in the industry, and understand how this methodology encourages more fluid collaboration between the different actors in the construction process.

The course will provide the necessary foundations for future architects to integrate into multidisciplinary teams, using BIM as a key tool for project design and efficient management. This introduction seeks not only to provide students with technical knowledge but also to make them aware of the advantages and challenges of implementing BIM in the professional field.

Pre-course requirements

Basic knowledge of the Windows operating system and of geometry

Objectives

The primary goal of this course is to provide students with a solid understanding of the BIM methodology and its practical application in architecture and construction. By the end of the course, students will be able to:

  1. Understand the fundamental concepts of Building Information Modeling (BIM) and its importance in the architecture and construction industries.
  2. Use basic BIM software tools (Revit i Naviswork) to create and manage 3D models enriched with associated information.
  3. Develop the ability to interpret and generate BIM models that integrate relevant information for the various phases of a construction project.
  4. Promote effective collaboration between the different stakeholders in the construction process through the use of BIM.
  5. Apply BIM principles in the planning, design, and management of projects, considering interdisciplinary coordination and resource optimization.
  6. Recognize the benefits and challenges of implementing BIM in professional practice, and its impact on decision-making throughout the project lifecycle.
  7. Prepare students to integrate into multidisciplinary teams using BIM as a central tool for collaboration and communication.

Competences/Learning outcomes of the degree programme

  • 03 - To acquire adequate knowledge of spatial representation systems applied to architecture and urbanism .
  • 04 - To acquire knowledge and apply it to the analysis and theory of form and the laws of visual perception in architecture and urbainism.
  • 05 - To acquire adequate knowlege of metric and projective geometry applied to architecture and urbanism.
  • 06 - To acquire adequate knowledge of graphic surveying techniques in all stages, from sketching to scientific restitution.
  • 10 - To acquire adequate knowledge and apply it to the fundamentals of topography, hypsometry, mapping and terrain modification techniques in architecture and urbanism
  • 1-T - Ability to apply graphic procedures to the representation of spaces and objects.
  • 2-T - Ability to conceive and represent the visual attributes of objects and master the proportions and techniques of drawing, including digital forms
  • 30 - To acquire knowledge of the organisation of professional offices.
  • 34-T - Ability to design, practice and develop basic and execution projects, sketches and blueprints.

Learning outcomes of the subject

By the end of the course, students will be able to model and visually represent an architectural project in BIM, and will have sufficient understanding to integrate structures and systems. Additionally, they will have gained the necessary knowledge to manage projects in BIM.

Syllabus

  • Introduction: What is BIM, visualization, export, and printing
  • Parameters and families
  • Architectural modeling
  • Structural modeling and integration into the project
  • Introduction to systems modeling
  • Site, orientation, drawing center, topography
  • Collaboration: Linked files, coordination, and clash detection
  • 4D and 5D, construction phases and quantities
  • Family creation
  • Materials and introduction to rendering

Teaching and learning activities

In person



The classes mix theory with immediate practical application. The course aims to train students to be able to find solutions independently.

Evaluation systems and criteria

In person



Regarding assessment, it consists of two parts. On one hand, 40% of the evaluation is based on a project that the student must model and submit on the last day of the course. On the other hand, the remaining 60% corresponds to weekly assignments.