Course detail

Computer Skills – 3D CAD

FA-P3D-NEAcad. year: 2021/2022

The course introduces information on graphic vector editors and their use in architectural design. It covers the basic 3D computer graphics and the practical use of the theoretical knowledge for working in Rhinoceros vector editor. The aim of the course is to master the methods which will allow students to build individually a 3D model of their design projects, and to create a photorealistic visualization.
In the study programmes “Architecture and Urban Design” the course is part of the courses on tools.

Language of instruction

English

Number of ECTS credits

Mode of study

Not applicable.

Guarantor

Ing. arch. Jan Foretník, Ph.D.

Department

Department of Spatial Design (UPT)

Offered to foreign students

Of all faculties

Learning outcomes of the course unit

  • Students will get information for the work with spatial data in vector editor.
  • Students will be able to work in vector editor (Rhinoceros).
  • Students will know the methods and processes for creating spatial model of a studied object.
  • Students will know methods and processes for creating photorealistic visualization of 3D models.
  • Students will be able to create simple animation.

Prerequisites

Not applicable.

Co-requisites

Not applicable.

Planned learning activities and teaching methods

Lecture, examples of assignments, individual work on the assignments takes place in the computer laboratory, e-learning system (LMS Moodle) is employed.

Assesment methods and criteria linked to learning outcomes

The developed project and credit test are evaluated. The project includes a 2D design, a 3D model and a photorealistic visualization of a studied object. The outcome is a presentation poster. The project forms 45 % of the evaluation. Students are required to work continuously, which is 15 % of the evaluation. The credit test verifying the knowledge forms 40 % of the evaluation.

Course curriculum

Semester block schedule:
  1. Introduction to Rhinoceros vector editor, structure, user interface. Representation of bodies, basic modelling methods, overview
  2. Modelling and editing of curves. Creating models via curves – templating, lofting
  3. Modelling and editing of bodies
  4. Modelling and editing of planes
  5. Special modelling methods – polygonal modelling, modifiers
  6. Photorealistic visualization – process, principles, rendering methods, rendering. Cameras, photometric lights, spotlighting
  7. Textures, materials, material editor, creating materials. Mapping materials. Basics of animation
  8. Final test

Work placements

Not applicable.

Aims

The aim of the course is to grasp the methods which will allow students to create individually a 3D model of their architectural design, and subsequently to present their work in a photorealistic visualization.

Specification of controlled education, way of implementation and compensation for absences

Students must participate in 10 practical classes at minimum. Absences cannot be compensated, they could be only excused for serious reasons. Upon the agreement with the teacher, the absences in the classroom can be compensated via online participation.

Recommended optional programme components

Not applicable.

Prerequisites and corequisites

Not applicable.

Basic literature

ISSA, Rajaa. Essential Mathematics for Computational Design (online). Robert McNeel & Associates, 2021. https://developer.rhino3d.com/guides/general/essential-mathematics/ (EN)
PIEGL, Les A.; TILLER, Wayne. The NURBS book. Springer, 1997, 2. vydání. ISBN 3-540-61545-8. (EN)
Rhino User's Guide for Windows. Robert McNeel & Associates, 2023. Online: https://docs.mcneel.com/rhino/7/help/en-us/index.htm (EN)
SALOMON, David. Curves and surfaces for computer. New York: Springler Science+Business Media, 2006. ISBN: 0-387-24196-5. (EN)
User’s Guide Rhino for Windows (online). Robert McNeel & Associates, 2020. URL: https://docs.mcneel.com/rhino/6/usersguide/en-us/index.htm (EN)

Recommended reading

BARTELS, Richard H.; BEATTY, John C.; BARSKY, Brian A. An introduction to splines for use in computer graphics and geometric modeling. San Mateo, USA: Morgan Kaufmann, 1995. ISBN: 1-55860-400-6. (EN)
FORETNÍK, Jan. NURBSdemo (online tool). Brno: FA BUT, 2012. URL: http://geometrie.foretnik.net/files/NURBS-en.swf (EN)
LOCKWOOD, E. H. Book of Curves. Cambridge University Press, 2007. ISBN: 978-0-521-04444-8. (EN)
ROGERS, David F. An Introduction to NURBS: With Historical Perspective. Morgan Kaufmann, 2001. ISBN 1-558-60669-6. (EN)

Elearning

eLearning: currently opened course

Classification of course in study plans

  • Programme ARCHURB Master's

    branch ARCH , 1 year of study, winter semester, compulsory-optional

  • Programme NX_A+U Master's 1 year of study, winter semester, elective
  • Programme BX_A+U Bachelor's 1 year of study, winter semester, elective
  • Programme NE_A+U Master's 1 year of study, winter semester, compulsory-optional

  • Programme ARCHURB Bachelor's

    branch ARCH , 1 year of study, winter semester, elective

  • Programme ARCHURB Master's

    branch ARCH , 1 year of study, winter semester, elective

Type of course unit

 

Exercise in computer lab

26 hod., optionally

Teacher / Lecturer

Ing. arch. Jan Foretník, Ph.D.

Elearning

eLearning: currently opened course