MODERN METHODS OF CONSTRUCTION

Topics included in this unit are project phases, construction drawing, detailing, Computer Aided Design (CAD), Building Information Modelling (BIM), schedules, specifications, bills of quantities and information collaboration. On successful completion of the unit, you will be able to analyse scenarios, make decisions and produce drawings and specifications to achieve appropriate, creative and innovative home design proposals.  

Scarcity of resources, continuing demand of more sophisticated clients, end users and other stakeholders are driving the construction industry to provide buildings that facilitate enhanced environmental and energy performance. This unit introduces the different technological concepts used to enable the construction of building elements from sub structure to completion by understanding the different functional characteristics and design considerations needed selecting the most suitable solution.

In this unit, you will explore the make-up and the impact of the construction industry on the environment and society. By exploring the roles and relationships of individuals and organisations in the construction sector, you will gain an overview of the organisational and the personal ways in which the construction sector works to continue to improve the built environment and limit its impact on the environment, while maintaining economic sustainability and growth.

Off-site construction offers a range of potential benefits for increasing the efficiency, accuracy and quality of the end product. In this unit you will explore different approaches to off-site construction, focussing on building developments and delivery. It includes modular construction, factory construction, automation, robotics and 3D printing. At the end of this unit you will be able assess potential options for off-site production and develop design and manufacturing strategies to enable efficient building delivery.

This unit aims to give you the knowledge to be able to select a procurement route and an appropriate tendering method in the awarding of a project to a main contractor. You will learn how to prepare a tender package to procure a contractor for a construction project. Topics included in thit unit include tendering constraints, documentation needed to send out a tender, the factors that affect procurement and procurement methods to select a contractor. On successful completion of this unit you will be able to obtain an estimate for a project at the design stage using a suitable procurement method.

The aim of this unit is to develop your knowledge of current and future energy technologies and to be able to apply that knowledge to the analysis and assessment of their effectiveness. You will also apply your knowledge and research to a design activity. On successful completion of this unit, you will be able to research and design alternative energy systems and assess new technologies available to the construction industry. 

Building Information Modelling (BIM) is an approach to information generation and management in a collaborative environment. BIM aims to endue better information is created, shared and kept secure for the whole duration of a building from cradle to grave. This includes all phases of construction from the initial design, during construction, operation and maintenance to the eventual decommission of a construction project. This unit will give you the background knowledge, terminology and understanding of BIM in construction as well as an understanding of the drivers and benefits associated with BIM.

Building Information Modelling (BIM) and the use of data in the planning, construction and operation of built assets has become commonplace for both large and small projects. The ability to manage projects throughout their lifecycle, using a common data set, has the potential to impact on the built environment in numerous ways such as supporting efficiency, reducing costs and driving sustainability.   While BIM is, effectively, a process of information management through a project lifecycle, it is most often based on the use of digital applications to generate project data. In this, the model is central in the process of designing and producing information that will facilitate construction and, later, the operation of the built asset. In this unit, you will explore the key processes in using digital applications to produce data and construction information that will enable the BIM process.