2025-09-08 3D Modelling Practical

Meeting summary

Quick recap

The meeting introduced the new semester's computing module, which will transition from 2D CAD to 3D modeling and rendering, with Brian explaining the schedule and structure of both lecture and practical sessions. The instructor provided an overview of the module's progression, including the major project requirements and assignment policies, while emphasizing the importance of class participation and hands-on work. The class discussed specific project details, including a lookout tower design, and addressed scheduling adjustments, with Brian proposing changes to the lecture schedule and plans to improve access to class recordings and resources.

Next steps

• All students: Install Revit on their devices for the upcoming 3D Modeling course.

• Students: Decide whether to schedule the lecture session on Saturday or keep it on Monday from 2-4 PM.

• Brian: Make class recordings and AI summaries available to students.

• All students: Form groups for the presentation assignment.

• All students: Prepare for the major project involving 3D modeling, rendering, and animation.

• All students: Plan for incorporating a room from their design studio project for the interior rendering assignment.

• Students: Attend Monday morning 3D modeling practical classes.

• Brian: Continue updating computing modules to make them more accessible and easier for students.

• All students: Prepare for random class participation activities throughout the semester.

• Students: Check the class website for schedule and assessment information.

• Brian: Implement AI summaries of class discussions as a supplementary resource.

  
  

Summary

CSA Computing Lead Introduction

Brian welcomed the class to the new semester, introducing himself as the CSA computing lead and explaining that they would be transitioning from 2D CAD to 3D modelling, including animation and design work. He mentioned that the computing modules are becoming more accessible and less stressful, and he shared his screen to go over some housekeeping items. The class will meet on Mondays, and Brian noted that he would be adjusting the volume on his computer to reduce background noise.

3D Modeling Class Schedule Overview

The meeting focused on discussing the schedule for a 3D modeling class, which includes both lecture and practical sessions. Brian explained that the practical sessions are typically held in the morning, while the lecture sessions can be either on Saturday after 6 PM or from 2 to 4 PM. He noted that most students prefer having the lecture on Saturday to space out the classes. Brian also provided an overview of the module, mentioning that the first half of the semester involves choosing topics and presenting them in lecture sessions, while the second half focuses on helping students with their final project.

3D Modeling and Rendering Overview

The instructor, Brian, provided an overview of the computing module's progression, emphasizing the shift from 2D CAD to 3D modeling and rendering, and highlighted the increasing flexibility and freedom students will experience as they advance. He discussed the integration of real-time rendering software like Twinmotion and mentioned the evolution of rendering techniques from offline to instant results. Brian outlined the course structure, including a major project that accounts for 50% of the grade, and explained that class participation and presentations will contribute to the remaining 50%. He encouraged students to attend class for hands-on work and emphasized that the workload will be managed by completing tasks during class sessions rather than through assignments.

3D Modeling and Rendering Course Overview

Brian introduced the 3D modeling and rendering course, explaining the objectives and methods used in the module. He discussed the assignment requirements, which involve creating a 3D rendering of a room from a design studio project using Revit and Twinmotion. Brian outlined the course timeline, including five checkpoints and a group presentation scheduled for the first half of the semester. He emphasized the importance of class participation and provided an overview of the module syllabus, which covers topics such as sketch to 3D model conversion, BIM tools, and rendering techniques.

Project Checkpoints and Presentation Guidelines

Brian outlined the major project's checkpoints, which include sketching a cabin design, building the terrain and foundation, constructing the roof and walls, rendering multiple views, and creating a 360-degree animation. He explained the presentation assignment, where students will choose a topic and present it, with participation points earned by asking questions during other groups' presentations. Brian also discussed the studio base project, which involves rendering an interior space, and emphasized the importance of registering for the class site to access grades and participate in activities.

Assignment Policies and Communication Guidelines

The instructor explained the deduction policy for assignments, which is based on a percentage per day for late submissions, with exemptions for certain assignments. He discussed the class timeline and schedule, emphasizing that students should refer to the website for upcoming deadlines. The instructor also covered communication methods, noting that email and WhatsApp are the primary forms of official communication, and he will update the schedule if there are any changes due to holidays or other conflicts.

Class Recordings and Schedule Updates

Brian discussed the module's class recordings and schedule, emphasizing the availability of recordings for students with scheduling conflicts. He proposed holding the lecture on Saturdays from 6 to 8 PM, allowing students to prepare for presentations without clashing with other commitments. Brian also introduced the use of the Mirror board for class activities and shared that it contains accumulated knowledge from previous years, which students can access to benefit their projects. He advised against editing the board and mentioned that it would be open for viewing throughout the semester.

Timber Beach Tower Design Project

The instructor, Brian, outlined a project for students to design a timber beach tower with a water body, accommodating 4 lifeguards and providing overnight stay for one lifeguard. The tower must be 2 stories high, built on stilts, with timber framing and louvred windows. Students will create a sketch including site plan, floor plan, section, and elevation, which will be submitted by the end of the class. The instructor emphasized the importance of sketching before moving to 3D modeling, using tools like Revit or Archicad, to ensure a clear and structured design process.

Class Schedule and Project Updates

The meeting focused on scheduling adjustments for a class, with discussions about moving a lecture session from Monday to Saturday. Brian proposed trying the Saturday schedule first and gathering feedback, with the option to revert to Monday if needed. He also addressed questions about class recordings, group presentations, and the major project, emphasizing the importance of sketch refinement before modeling. Brian mentioned updating the class website to improve access to recordings and other resources.

Design Submission and Technical Setup

Brian instructed the class to focus on sketching their designs for submission, emphasizing the importance of the task. Adyson requested a private conversation with Brian after class, which he agreed to. Brian mentioned creating breakout rooms for further work and addressed some technical issues with audio and screen sharing. The class appeared to be working on a project, with Brian guiding them through the process and ensuring they could see and hear him.

Lookout Tower Design Project Review

The class discussed the design of a lookout tower project. Brian demonstrated creating a rough sketch in Miro, combining elements from reference images like wraparound balconies and sloping roofs. He emphasized that students should explore their own designs while considering the 20x20 foot size constraint and timber structure requirements. The class reviewed the workflow, which includes refining sketches in Rivet before creating a BIM 3D model. Brian announced plans to update the class website with recordings and summaries of lectures. He also discussed potentially moving the lecture to Friday to better accommodate schedules.