2026-01-26 - BIM - LECTURE - Theory Presentaiton

Quick recap

The class focused on exploring the Autodesk Revit sample project, which serves as a semi-fictional training model based on a historical building in Brownsville, Pennsylvania. Brian Williams demonstrated how the project showcases various Revit features and explained that students would form groups to present on specific topics related to Revit functionality. Students were instructed to watch an interview video about the project and explore the model to prepare for their presentations, which would involve demonstrating how different features were used in the model. The class also discussed the importance of understanding construction documentation phases and how Revit can generate different types of information from the same model through view templates.

Next steps

• All students: Form groups of up to 4 members and select a topic for the Revit features presentation assignment (to be completed before the next class after study tour).

• All students: Watch the provided interview video about the sample Revit project to understand the project background and features.

• All students: Open and explore the provided Revit sample project to identify and demonstrate how their selected feature/topic is used within the model, preparing for the presentation.

• All students: Prepare a 3-slide presentation on their selected Revit feature/topic, including definition, industry use (with local example if possible), and demonstration of its use in the sample project.

• All students: Consider pre-recording their presentations if technical issues with live model navigation are anticipated; otherwise, prepare to present live.

• All students: Complete and upload the massing model (if not already done) before the end of the class period to receive the extra 2% marks.

• All students: Use the Miro board to add their names to the appropriate group and topic for the presentation assignment.

• Brian: Provide design drawings to students after the study tour for them to start design development drawings.

• All students: Review the provided examples and instructions on the website regarding the assignment and design development drawings.

Summary

Class Exercise Progress Discussion

Brian Williams led a discussion about a class exercise, asking participants if they had completed the assignment. He noted that some people had not provided thumbs up to indicate their progress. Brian encouraged motivation and mentioned that the pressure had not yet started. He asked who had started the assignment and requested participants to show their progress with thumbs up.

Task Reassignment and Project Updates

The meeting focused on discussing the reassignment of tasks and the upcoming schedule for theory presentations and practical projects. Brian explained that students would need to use Rivet for theory presentations and continue working on the BIM sample project after the study tour. He also addressed a question from Evelin about using SketchUp, clarifying that the login is free and providing instructions on how to upload and download files.

Revit Sample Project: Digital Twin

The meeting focused on exploring a sample project in Revit, which serves as a semi-real, fictional representation of a historic building in Brownsville, Pennsylvania. Brian highlighted the project's significance, explaining that it was created using laser scanning technology to capture the building before its demolition. The team discussed the potential of using this digital twin to educate students and the public about historical preservation and the future of technology in architecture. They also emphasized the importance of this project in showcasing how digital tools can help visualize and restore historical structures, thus inspiring a new era of industrial revolution and innovation.

Laser Scanning in Architecture Project

Brian explained the process of laser scanning and its application in creating precise models of buildings using software like Recap Pro and Revit. He described a project that simulated the renovation of a historical building, highlighting the use of laser scanning to capture detailed data and the subsequent design process. Brian then outlined an assignment for the class, which involves forming groups to select and present on one of several given topics over the course of three weeks.

Revit Features Exploration Assignment

Brian assigned a project where students need to define, demonstrate, and discuss specific features of Revit, including laser scanning, schedules, and other topics. He provided supporting files, a video interview with the project team, and encouraged students to conduct additional research. The assignment requires students to explore how these features were used in a sample project, with an emphasis on demonstrating practical applications rather than just defining the features themselves.

Revit Techniques for Modern Architecture

The group discussed a Revit project that demonstrates construction drawing techniques, including wall and door tags, with a focus on how to reuse existing building facades while modernizing the interior. The project includes detailed 3D models, sections, and drawings that show practical applications like attaching light fixtures and connecting floors to existing structures. The discussion emphasized that while these features may not be commonly used in architecture school, they are essential for real-world architectural work, and the team will explore these capabilities while designing a pavilion exhibition project.

Revit Modeling and Project Phases

Brian discussed the detailed modeling in Revit, explaining that the sample project includes construction drawings with specific details like wall thickness and cladding. He outlined the project phases, emphasizing the progression from pre-design to schematic design and construction documentation. Brian encouraged participants to explore the project, noting that the schematic design phase includes floor plans and architectural drawings. He asked for observations on differences between the current floor plan and a previous one, but the discussion was cut short due to technical issues.

Comparing Wall and Space Drawings

The discussion focused on comparing two types of drawings, with Ansel explaining that one shows wall types while the other shows space usage. Brian highlighted that both types of drawings exist in the same model in Rivet, with different information generated through view templates. The class discussed the technical challenges of accessing and presenting the model, with Brian suggesting students with faster computers could pre-record their presentations. The conversation also touched on how multiple professionals worked simultaneously on the project using linked Revit files, and Brian noted that the sloping road was accurately represented in the Twinmotion file.

Revit Modeling and Floor Plans

Brian led a discussion on a building project, focusing on floor plan slopes, view ranges, and phasing in Revit. He explained the importance of understanding how to represent different levels and demolished sections in the software. Brian also clarified the purpose of "working" views versus final prints, emphasizing the need for separate versions when manipulating models. He encouraged participants to explore the model, discover its features, and learn more about Revit through hands-on investigation.

Revit Group Presentation Assignment Setup

The instructor, Brian, explained the setup for an upcoming assignment involving group presentations on Revit features. He clarified that groups should be limited to 4 members and directed students to sign up on a Miro board. Brian also discussed the project's structure, emphasizing that the main assignment focuses on exploring a Revit model to showcase specific features. He encouraged students to pre-record their presentations if they are comfortable with technology, as this would help manage technical issues during live presentations. Brian reminded students to watch an instructional video on the website to better understand the project and to complete their massing models before the study tour. He also highlighted the importance of timely submissions for extra credit opportunities.

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