| Version | 1.3 |
| Unit Name | Design of Modular Construction |
| Unit Code | BCS310 |
| Unit History | N/A |
| Unit Duration | 1 Semester |
| Award |
Bachelor of Science (Engineering) Duration 3 years |
| Year Level | Three |
| Unit Creator / Reviewer | Dr Ana Evangelista / Dr. Karoline Figueiredo |
| Core/Elective: | Elective |
| Pre/Co-requisites | N/A |
| Credit Points |
3 Total Course Credit Points 81 (27 x 3) |
| Mode of Delivery | Online or on-campus. |
| Unit Workload | (Total student workload including “contact hours” = 10 hours per week; 5 hours per week for 24 week delivery) Pre-recordings / Lecture – 1.5 hours Tutorial – 1.5 hours Guided labs / Group work / Assessments – 2 hours Personal Study recommended – 5 hours |
Unit Description and General Aims
This unit aims to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of modular construction. It builds upon knowledge gained in previous units, enabling students to apply their skills and expertise to off-site construction scenarios. The unit will explore both the benefits and challenges of modular construction, offering a balanced perspective on its application in real-world projects.
An essential component of the unit is developing a modular construction case study, where students will use Building Information Modelling (BIM) concepts and software. This hands-on, problem-based collaborative learning approach will enhance their ability to integrate theory with practice.
At the conclusion of this unit, students will have acquired the knowledge and skills required to design and implement various modular construction projects, preparing them for advanced applications in this innovative field.
Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of this unit, students are expected to be able to:
- Formulate and create an effective design of different modular buildings and construction.
Bloom's Level 6 - Demonstrate a broad understanding of the principles of prefab and modular building construction.
Bloom's Level 2 - Analyse practical case studies to enhance the understanding of important concepts to design.
Bloom's Level 4 - Outline, specify, and justify modular construction design decisions considering the sustainability concepts.
Bloom's Level 5
Student assessment
| Assessment Type | When assessed | Weighting (% of total unit marks) | Learning Outcomes Assessed |
|
Assessment 1 Type: Weekly Quizzes Description: Students will need to complete multiple-choice quiz questions to demonstrate a good understanding of the fundamental concepts. Topics 2 to Topic 11 |
Ongoing | 10% | All |
|
Assessment 2 Type: Test (Invigilated) Description: Students will need to answer some short and/or long answer questions and/or solve some simple numerical problems. |
Due after Topic 5 | 25% | 1, 3 |
|
Assessment 3 Type: Practical (Report) Description: This assessment will require students to write a report exploring the intersection of modular construction and sustainability. The report will focus on analysing modular construction methods and evaluating their environmental, social, and economic impacts, with reference to sustainability principles and practices covered in the unit. |
Due after Topic 9 | 25% | 2, 3 |
|
Assessment 4 Type: Practical (Project Development) Description: This assessment will involve using Autodesk Revit to design and model a modular building. Students will create a detailed architectural model of a prefabricated modular structure, incorporating elements such as cladding, roofing, and balconies to align with modular construction principles. Students will be evaluated on their ability to apply theoretical principles of modular construction practically, integrate sustainable design considerations, and use BIM tools effectively for project coordination and development. |
Final Week | 40% | 1 to 4 |
Overall requirements: An overall final unit score of 50% or above must be achieved to pass the unit once all assessment, including the exam, has been completed.
Prescribed and Recommended Readings
Required textbook(s)
- Lawson, M., Ogden, R., & Goodier, C. (2014). Design in Modular Construction (1st ed.). CRC Press. https://doi.org/10.1201/b16607
Reference Materials
- The Modular Housing Handbook. 2020. Simon Bayliss, Rory Bergin. RIBA Publishing. ISBN:9781000217148
- Handbook for the Design of Modular Structures. 2017. Published by Monash University. ISBN 978-0-646-96498-0
Unit Content
Topic 1
Introduction to Modular Construction
- Overview of modular construction
- Benefits of off-site processes
- Applications in residential, commercial, and public buildings
Topic 2
Prefabricated Concrete Modules
- Linear elements
- Planar elements
- Volumetric modules
Topic 3
Steel Modules
- Types and applications of steel modules
- Design considerations for light steel modules
- Joints and connections for steel systems
Topic 4
Timber Modules
- Types and characteristics of timber modules
- Design considerations for timber modules
- Joints and connections for timber modules
Topic 5
Hybrid Modular Systems and Height Considerations
- Definition and advantages of hybrid systems
- Integration of multiple materials (e.g., timber, steel, concrete)
- Applications in mixed-use and multi-funtional buildings
- Planning for height: number of modules vs. building height
Topic 6
Challenges in Modular Construction
- Constructional issues: site assembly, transportation, and tolerances
- Regulatory, supply chain, and workforce limitations
- Addressing gaps between modular theory and practice
Topic 7
Cladding, Roofing, and Balconies in Modular Construction
- Cladding systems for modular buildings
- Roofing and balconies as separate elements
- Detailing and integration challenges
Topic 8
Sustainability in Modular Construction
- Environmental, social, and economic impacts of modular construction
- Applying Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) to modular buildings
- Green certifications and sustainable modular practices
Topic 9
BIM in Modular Construction (Part 1)
- Overview of BIM in modular construction
- Case study develoopment: residential modular building
- Modelling workflows and integration in modular projects
Topic 10
BIM in Modular Construction (Part 2)
- Advanced BIM applications in educational buildings
- BIM for healthcare: hospitals and medical facilities
- Collaborative design using BIM
Topic 11
Future Innovations in Modular Construction
- Smart modules and loT integration
- Digital twin technologies for modular projects
- AI driven design optimisation
Topic 12
Unit Review
In the final week, students will have an opportunity to review the contents covered so far. An opportunity will be provided to review student work and clarify any outstanding issues.
Software/Hardware Used
Software
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Software: Autodesk Revit
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Software information: Autodesk Revit is a powerful Building Information Modeling (BIM) software widely used in modular construction for designing, planning, and managing prefabricated building projects. Its parametric modeling capabilities enable efficient coordination, seamless integration of modular components, and real-time collaboration across disciplines. In this unit, Revit will be utilized to develop modular designs, optimize prefabrication workflows, and enhance construction efficiency through data-driven decision-making."
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Version: Latest
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Instructions: N/A
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Additional resources or files: N/A
Hardware
- N/A
