Students get to grips with 3D reality

A group of students from the University of Wolverhampton have recently developed a Prometheus-styled 3D computer model of one of the most historic buildings in Telford.

The students from the Architecture Department of the School of Architecture and Built Environment, FSE, have been working on the model as part of a Building Information Modelling (BIM) module, alongside Technical Resource Manager, Paul Boden.

The real-world project is in aid of helping the regeneration of the Anstice Memorial Hall situated in Madeley, Telford.

Work first began back in September of last year, when Paul completed a 3D laser scan of the building after it had been vacated by its last tenants, and was at risk of falling into disrepair.

Fortunately, after growing concern a local group was formed to help aid the regeneration.

Students involved with the project completed the model after several visits to the site, with the work being a collaborative team effort based on the UK Government BIM Philosophy and subsequent standards.

Based on the computer model generated, students are now working on individual projects to create a redesign of the building. These will be showcased at the end of year architectural design exhibitions in May at the University’s Harrison Learning Centre, the Wolverhampton Art Gallery and the Anstice building itself.

In addition, the academic team are using their on-going research in digital heritage to investigate the production of virtual and augmented reality simulations of the building to further support the on-going regeneration.

Dr David Heesom, Reader in BIM at the University of Wolverhampton, said: ‘The laser scan creates a highly accurate 3D ‘point cloud’ of the building made up of millions of individual measurements.

"From the laser scan data our students have used a Scan2BIM approach to build a very accurate 3D model of the building using BIM tools.

“As of April, BIM is the methodology required for government procured construction projects and using this project has allowed students to develop their technical skills.

“All of this has been done based on a real project giving them a great real world experience.”

ENDS

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Date Issued: Friday 01 April 2016