Vjith
Friday, 28 February 2025
Individual Research contributions to Group Project
~ Proposed and pitched my technology of AutoCAD to my group mates. We debated among the three technologies and decided on AutoCAD as the technology we are going to work on.
~ Read through various articles and journals on Autocad's issues and linked it with my own personal reader response to fixate on a problem statement for our group project.
~ Figured out the pros and cons and discussed with my groupmates on how we are going to propose in our report.
Research on AutoCAD's Collaboration Feature
~ After discussing with my groupmates, we felt that needed a change in the direction we approach and decided to work on AutoCAD's collaboration issues as our problem statement.
~ Felt Wen Cong's problem statement is the most viable and went on to futher research about AutoCAD's collaboration users.
Research on BIM's Collaboration Feature
~ After finalising on Wen Cong's problem statment, I went to gather futher inspiration from BIM's 360 to adopt 'Real-Time Multi-User collaboration' features into my proposed technology.
Ideal, Gap, Goal table
~ Refined the table with our new proposed information gathered by the team and prepared us for the pitch.
-As of 28th Feb 2025-
Sunday, 16 February 2025
Venkatesan Vishvajith_Reader Response_Final Draft
According to Autodesk (2023), AutoCAD is a versatile tool widely used in architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) for precision drafting, 2D/3D modelling, and workflow optimization. Its key features include tools for accurate 2D drawings, annotations, geometric constraints, and advanced 3D modelling capabilities for solid, surface, and mesh designs. Automation tools like dynamic blocks and AutoLISP scripting reduce repetitive tasks, while industry-specific toolsets streamline workflows with predefined libraries and templates. Smith (2021) emphasizes that these toolsets are tailored for architecture, mechanical, electrical, and civil engineering, improving productivity. AutoCAD’s functions enable seamless design creation, visualization through rendering and animations, and efficient documentation with automated schedules and takeoffs. According to Jones (2022), integration with Building Information Modeling (BIM) tools, cloud storage, and real-time collaboration optimizes team workflows. Compatibility with DWG, DXF, and other file formats ensures broad interoperability, making AutoCAD essential for collaborative AEC projects.
Thesis:
AutoCAD’s extensive 2D and 3D modelling capabilities make it a superior choice over alternative applications such as SketchUp and Revit, cementing its indispensability for large-scale multi-disciplinary projects.
AutoCAD, developed by Autodesk, has its versatile suite of tools tailored for precise drafting in the 2D realm. According to Autodesk (n.d.) and ONLC Training Centers (n.d.), when developing a residential neighbourhood, engineers draft; layouts of roads, drainage systems, and utility networks to ensure all elements fit together seamlessly. Similarly, highway designs rely on precise 2D drafts for lanes, medians, and intersections, meeting traffic flow and safety regulations (Autodesk, n.d.; ONLC Training Centers, n.d.). Based on this information, it can be deduced that AutoCAD’s ability to deliver precise 2D drawings places it at the forefront of design software. The platform tools enable professionals to visualize their designs in real-world contexts whilst improving decision-making during the design phase. These features are superior compared to their competing applications which are unable to produce drafts of similar qualities. Therefore, AutoCAD's 2D design features play a crucial role in the AEC industry by allowing all stakeholders to understand the intended outcome of the project easily.
AutoCAD’s 3D modelling tools provide civil engineers with the ability to design complex structures like bridges, tunnels, and retaining walls with exceptional precision. For example, civil engineers designing a cable-stayed bridge can use AutoCAD to create complex 3D models that detail the arrangement of cables, piers, and the deck. The platform’s parametric modelling features allow engineers to make adjustments to the model quickly while maintaining structural integrity (Autodesk, n.d.). This capability not only ensures that designs meet structural and safety requirements but also enhances efficiency during the design phase. Engineers can visualize the structure in a realistic 3D environment, identifying and resolving potential issues before construction begins. Furthermore, AutoCAD offers greater freedom in its design modification compared to Revit and accurate measurements in its 3D modelling when put against SketchUp. Moreover, the ability to update models dynamically saves time and reduces errors in large-scale projects. Therefore, AutoCAD’s 3D modelling tools have become indispensable for civil engineers working on complex infrastructure projects, ensuring both functional and efficient designs.
However, AutoCAD not without its challenges, has been facing disasters in its realm of rendering. There has been a growing number of issues faced by users over the years that are commonly seen to be brought up in their forums. One particular user experienced AutoCAD freezing during the rendering process, preventing the completion of the render. That user reported that AutoCAD would freeze a few seconds into the rendering process, requiring the render window to be forcibly closed. (Autodesk Community Forum, 2019). It is believed that the rendering freezes can result from various factors, including insufficient system resources, corrupted drawing files, or software conflicts. As the fires are being put out by Autodesk, more are breaking out repeatedly in the sector of rendering. Nevertheless, to address this issue, users could ensure their system meets the necessary hardware requirements and close any unnecessary applications to free up resources. Additionally, auditing and repairing the drawing file for errors and ensuring that AutoCAD is updated to the latest version can help prevent such freezes during rendering. However, these additional steps could be a daunting process as well as expensive to cater to.
In conclusion, AutoCAD’s comprehensive feature set and integration capabilities make it a superior choice for design professionals in the AEC industry. While challenges like cost and complexity exist, they are overshadowed by the software’s ability to streamline workflows, enhance collaboration, and deliver precise, high-quality designs. As the AEC industry continues to embrace digital transformation, AutoCAD remains a vital tool for driving innovation and excellence in design and construction, truly setting the gold standard for excellence in the AEC industry.
References
Autodesk Community Forum. (2019). AutoCAD render freezes. Autodesk Forums. Retrieved from https://forums.autodesk.com/t5/autocad-forum/autocad-render-freezes/td-p/8409419
Autodesk. (n.d.). AutoCAD features. Autodesk. https://www.autodesk.com/products/autocad/features
Autodesk. (2023). AutoCAD features overview. Retrieved from https://www.autodesk.com
Jones, R. (2022). Efficiency in construction design tools: AutoCAD’s role in collaborative workflows. International Journal of AEC Design, 18(2), 32–45
ONLC Training Centers. (n.d.). What is AutoCAD? Benefits and uses. https://www.onlc.com/blog/what-is-autocad/
Smith, J. (2021). BIM integration in AutoCAD: Enhancing workflows and productivity. Journal of Design Technology, 15(4), 56–64.
Sunday, 9 February 2025
Summary + Thesis Draft #2
According to Autodesk (2023), AutoCAD is a versatile tool widely used in architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) for precision drafting, 2D/3D modeling, and workflow optimization. Its key features include tools for accurate 2D drawings, annotations, and geometric constraints, along with advanced 3D modeling capabilities for solid, surface, and mesh designs. Automation tools, such as dynamic blocks and AutoLISP scripting, reduce repetitive tasks, while industry-specific toolsets streamline workflows with predefined libraries and templates. Smith (2021) emphasizes that these toolsets are tailored for architecture, mechanical, electrical, and civil engineering, improving productivity. AutoCAD’s functions enable seamless design creation, visualization through rendering and animations, and efficient documentation with automated schedules and takeoffs. According to Jones (2022), integration with Building Information Modeling (BIM) tools, cloud storage, and real-time collaboration optimizes team workflows. Compatibility with DWG, DXF, and other file formats ensures broad interoperability, making AutoCAD essential for collaborative AEC projects.Hence, AutoCAD revolutionizes the way design and construction professionals work, combining precision, innovation, and collaboration into one powerful platform.
Thesis:
AutoCAD’s extensive design library and advanced cloud-based collaboration tools make it a superior choice over alternative applications such as SketchUp and Revit, particularly in the realm of 2D and 3D modeling, cementing its indispensability for large-scale multi-disciplinary projects.
References
Autodesk. (2023). AutoCAD features overview. Autodesk. https://www.autodesk.com
Jones, R. (2022). Efficiency in construction design tools: AutoCAD’s role in collaborative workflows. International Journal of AEC Design, 18(2), 32–45
Smith, J. (2021). BIM integration in AutoCAD: Enhancing workflows and productivity. Journal of Design Technology, 15(4), 56–64.
AutoCAD, developed by Autodesk, has long been a cornerstone in the architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) industry. With its versatile suite of tools tailored for precision drafting, 2D/3D modeling and collaboration, AutoCAD stands out as a superior choice over competing applications. Its ability to deliver precise 2D drawings and complex 3D models places it at the forefront of design softwares. Autocad's features allows users to focus on innovation and problem-solving. Industry-specific toolsets further enhance productivity, providing predefined libraries and templates for architectural, mechanical, and civil engineering projects. The platform’s capabilities to produce technical drawings and 3D models integrated with collaborating tools enable professionals to visualize their designs in real-world contexts whilst improving decision-making during the design phase. For instance, when developing a residential neighborhood, engineers draft layouts of roads, drainage systems, and utility networks to ensure all elements fit together seamlessly. Similarly, highway designs rely on precise 2D drafts for lanes, medians, and intersections, meeting traffic flow and safety regulations (Autodesk, n.d.; ONLC Training Centers, n.d.). Therefore, Autocad's 2D design features play a crucial role in the AEC industry by allowing all stakeholders to easily understand the intended outcome of the project.
AutoCAD’s 3D modeling tools provide civil engineers with the ability to design complex structures like bridges, tunnels, and retaining walls with exceptional precision. For example, civil engineers designing a cable-stayed bridge can use AutoCAD to create 3D models that detail the arrangement of cables, piers, and the deck. The platform’s parametric modeling features allow engineers to make adjustments to the model quickly while maintaining structural integrity (Autodesk, n.d.). This capability not only ensures that designs meet structural and safety requirements but also enhances efficiency during the design phase. Engineers can visualize the structure in a realistic 3D environment, identifying and resolving potential issues before construction begins. Furthermore, the ability to update models dynamically saves time and reduces errors in large-scale projects.By offering precision, flexibility, and visualization capabilities, AutoCAD’s 3D modeling tools have become indispensable for civil engineers working on complex infrastructure projects, ensuring both functional and efficient designs.
However, AutoCAD is not without its challenges. AutoCAD has been facing disasters in its realm of rendering. There has been a growing number of issues faced by users over the years. These issues are commonly seen to be brought up in their forums. As the fires are bring put out more are breaking out repeadetly in the sector of rendering. One particular user experienced AutoCAD freezing during the rendering process, preventing the completion of the render. That user reported that AutoCAD would freeze a few seconds into the rendering process, requiring the render window to be forcibly closed. (FORUMS.AUTODESK.COM) It is believed that the rendering freezes can result from various factors, including insufficient system resources, corrupted drawing files, or software conflicts. Nevertheless, to address this issue, users could ensure their system meets the necessary hardware requirements and close any unnecessary applications to free up resources. Additionally, auditing and repairing the drawing file for errors and ensuring that AutoCAD is updated to the latest version can help prevent such freezes during rendering. However, these additional steps could be a daunting process as well as expensive to cater.
Notably, in today’s interconnected world, effective collaboration is paramount for project success. AutoCAD addresses these needs with its robust cloud storage and real-time collaboration features. It is compatibile with common file formats such as DWG and DXF, along with its integration with Building Information Modeling (BIM) tools. These capabilities ensures smooth interoperability across teams and disciplines, not only by reducing errors but also streamline workflows and enables stakeholders to contribute to projects from remote locations. O'Flynn Group, an Irish property developer, enhanced their design and project management processes by integrating AutoCAD LT with the Autodesk AEC Collection and Autodesk Construction Cloud, specifically utilizing BIM Collaborate and BIM 360. By centralizing all project information within Autodesk Construction Cloud, O'Flynn Group ensured that all team members had access to the latest design revisions, reducing the risk of errors associated with outdated drawings. The integration facilitated improved collaboration among teams, streamlined workflows, and enhanced document management. The adoption of AutoCAD LT within the Autodesk ecosystem allowed O'Flynn Group to maintain a centralized repository for all project-related documents. This centralization ensured that all stakeholders were working with the most current information, thereby minimizing miscommunication and rework. The cloud-based platform also provided tools for tracking design changes, managing approvals, and facilitating real-time collaboration among geographically dispersed teams. This example demonstrates how integrating AutoCAD with cloud-based platforms like Autodesk Construction Cloud can significantly improve collaboration, information management, and overall project delivery in the construction industry. This case study highlights the practical benefits of leveraging AutoCAD's cloud-based collaboration features to enhance project workflows and team coordination.
In conclusion, AutoCAD’s comprehensive feature set and integration capabilities make it a superior choice for design professionals in the AEC industry. While challenges like cost and complexity exist, they are overshadowed by the software’s ability to streamline workflows, enhance collaboration, and deliver precise, high-quality designs. As the AEC industry continues to embrace digital transformation, AutoCAD remains a vital tool for driving innovation and excellence in design and construction, truly setting the gold standard for excellence in the AEC industry.
References
Autodesk Community Forum. (2019). AutoCAD Render Freezes. Retrieved from https://forums.autodesk.com/t5/autocad-forum/autocad-render-freezes/td-p/8409419
Autodesk. (n.d.). AutoCAD features. Retrieved from https://www.autodesk.com/products/autocad/features
NTI Diatec. (2023). Autodesk AEC Collection and Autodesk Construction Cloud Case Study: O'Flynn Group. Retrieved from https://ntidiatec.com/blogs/case-study/autodesk-aec-collection-and-autodesk-construction-cloud-case-study-o-flynn-group
ONLC Training Centers. (n.d.). What is AutoCAD? Benefits and uses. Retrieved from https://www.onlc.com/blog/what-is-autocad/
Summary + Thesis + Supports #Draft 3
Thursday, 6 February 2025
Summary + Thesis & Reader Response Draft #2 for Autodesk AutoCAD
According to Autodesk (2023), AutoCAD is a versatile tool widely used in architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) for precision drafting, 2D/3D modeling, and workflow optimization. Its key features include tools for accurate 2D drawings, annotations, and geometric constraints, along with advanced 3D modeling capabilities for solid, surface, and mesh designs. Automation tools, such as dynamic blocks and AutoLISP scripting, reduce repetitive tasks, while industry-specific toolsets streamline workflows with predefined libraries and templates. Smith (2021) emphasizes that these toolsets are tailored for architecture, mechanical, electrical, and civil engineering, improving productivity. AutoCAD’s functions enable seamless design creation, visualization through rendering and animations, and efficient documentation with automated schedules and takeoffs. According to Jones (2022), integration with Building Information Modeling (BIM) tools, cloud storage, and real-time collaboration optimizes team workflows. Compatibility with DWG, DXF, and other file formats ensures broad interoperability, making AutoCAD essential for collaborative AEC projects.Hence, AutoCAD revolutionizes the way design and construction professionals work, combining precision, innovation, and collaboration into one powerful platform truly setting the gold standard for excellence in the AEC industry.
Thesis:
AutoCAD’s comprehensive library of design and cloud-based collaboration tools, allows itself to be a superior choice over alternative applications such as SketchUp and Revit, especially in the realm of 2D and 3D modelling, thus making it indispensable for large, multi-disciplinary projects. / AutoCAD’s extensive design library and advanced cloud-based collaboration tools make it a superior choice over alternative applications such as SketchUp and Revit, particularly in 2D and 3D modeling, cementing its indispensability for large-scale, multi-disciplinary projects
References
Autodesk. (2023). AutoCAD features overview. Autodesk. https://www.autodesk.com
Jones, R. (2022). Efficiency in construction design tools: AutoCAD’s role in collaborative workflows. International Journal of AEC Design, 18(2), 32–45
Smith, J. (2021). BIM integration in AutoCAD: Enhancing workflows and productivity. Journal of Design Technology, 15(4), 56–64.
AutoCAD, developed by Autodesk, has long been a cornerstone in the architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) industry. With its versatile suite of tools tailored for precision drafting, 2D/3D modeling and collaboration, AutoCAD stands out as a superior choice over competing applications. Its ability to deliver precise 2D drawings and complex 3D models places it at the forefront of design softwares. Autocad's features allows users to focus on innovation and problem-solving. Industry-specific toolsets further enhance productivity, providing predefined libraries and templates for architectural, mechanical, and civil engineering projects. The platform’s rendering and animation capabilities enable professionals to visualize their designs in real-world contexts, improving decision-making during the design phase.
However, AutoCAD is not without its challenges. The high subscription costs can pose significant barriers, particularly for small businesses, freelancers, or students. Futhermore, the software’s steep learning curve can be daunting for new users, requiring significant time and resources for training. While its comprehensive toolsets are an asset, they can also overwhelm new users. I also personally believe there is a crisis waiting to be solved in the realm of 3D modelling and rendering. (Crashes & HPCS requirements) However, these limitations are outweighed by AutoCAD’s long-term benefits in productivity, accuracy, and project collaboration, especially for larger organizations that can leverage its full potential.
Nevertheless in today’s interconnected world, effective collaboration is paramount for project success. AutoCAD addresses these needs with its robust cloud storage and real-time collaboration features. It is compatibile with common file formats such as DWG and DXF, along with its integration with Building Information Modeling (BIM) tools and cloud storage. These capabilities ensures smooth interoperability across teams and disciplines, not only by reducing errors but also streamline workflows, enabling stakeholders to contribute to projects from remote locations.
In conclusion, AutoCAD’s comprehensive feature set and integration capabilities make it a superior choice for design professionals in the AEC industry. While challenges like cost and complexity exist, they are overshadowed by the software’s ability to streamline workflows, enhance collaboration, and deliver precise, high-quality designs. As the AEC industry continues to embrace digital transformation, AutoCAD remains a vital tool for driving innovation and excellence in design and construction, cementing its position as the gold standard in the field.
Monday, 27 January 2025
Summary + Thesis Draft #1 for Autodesk AutoCAD
AutoCAD’s comprehensive library of design and cloud-based collaboration tools, allows itself to be a superior choice over alternative applications, especially in the realm of 2D and 3D modelling. Thus, making it indispensable for large, multi-disciplinary projects.
Summary
According to Autodesk (2023), AutoCAD is a versatile tool widely used in architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) for precision drafting, 2D/3D modeling, and workflow optimization. Its key features include tools for accurate 2D drawings, annotations, and geometric constraints, along with advanced 3D modeling capabilities for solid, surface, and mesh designs. Automation tools, such as dynamic blocks and AutoLISP scripting, reduce repetitive tasks, while industry-specific toolsets streamline workflows with predefined libraries and templates. Smith (2021) emphasizes that these toolsets are tailored for architecture, mechanical, electrical, and civil engineering, improving productivity. AutoCAD’s functions enable seamless design creation, visualization through rendering and animations, and efficient documentation with automated schedules and takeoffs. According to Jones (2022), integration with Building Information Modeling (BIM) tools, cloud storage, and real-time collaboration optimizes team workflows. Compatibility with DWG, DXF, and other file formats ensures broad interoperability, making AutoCAD essential for collaborative AEC projects.
References:
Autodesk. (2023). AutoCAD features overview. Autodesk. https://www.autodesk.com
Smith, J. (2021). BIM integration in AutoCAD: Enhancing workflows and productivity. Journal of Design Technology, 15(4), 56–64.
Jones, R. (2022). Efficiency in construction design tools: AutoCAD’s role in collaborative workflows. International Journal of AEC Design, 18(2), 32–45
Thursday, 23 January 2025
Research Pathway
The research prompt we entered into ChatGPT to gather detailed information on AutoCAD was: "What are the main features and functions of AutoCAD used in architecture, engineering, and construction, particularly for precision drafting, 2D/3D modeling, automation, and workflow optimization."
Partnered with Francis
Sunday, 19 January 2025
Personal Problem Reflection Exercise
Ideal | To become consistent and disciplined in all the tasks I do |
Reality(gap) | I am lazy, often get distracted, and fail to complete the task with the ideal performance by the stipulated deadline. |
Causes/Conditions | I realise that my phone is a huge distraction. I often find myself wasting a lot of time unnecessarily on my phone as well as |
Results | I end up being behind on my schoolwork; in return, there is a domino effect for the entire trimester. |
Goal | To instil discipline in me |
Possible change | Start to hide my phone every time I'm about to study so that I can minimise distraction |
Testing the hypothesis | I am forcing myself to go to the library and stashing away my phone in my house while studying in my room. |
Outcome of change | I save a lot of precious time by avoiding doom scrolling on my phone and instead spend that time learning and catching up on my studies and sooner or later building this discipline to improve myself in other aspects of life. |
Tuesday, 14 January 2025
Week 2 - Task 7: Applying what you have learned to writing a formal email
Dear Mr Brad,
I am writing this email to introduce myself to you per task 7. Firstly, I would like to share with you that I graduated with a Diploma in Landscape Architecture from Singapore Polytechnic in 2022. On the contrary, I have switched my focus on my career path and decided to pursue my Bachelor in Civil Engineering at Singapore Institute of Technology. The decision I made can be simply explained because I often found myself intrigued when the lessons at my poly taught me structural design. I grew fond of the technical side of the built environment. Thus, I leaned to my likings and strengths which led to my professional interest in engineering.
In addition to that, I’ll look forward to share my strengths and weaknesses in my communication. Firstly, I strongly believe that I am outspoken and firm. These traits have been assisting me in many interviews and meetings. A situation where I can confidently express my thoughts and ideas directly with one or more people. For instance, during my interview for my internship, I had a very decisive interaction with my interviewers, and within a couple of days, they accepted me even before they interviewed any other students. However, when I have a presentation in front of a huge number of people, my strengths turn into my weaknesses, and I experience stage fright. I have experienced that multiple times during my poly years and it pulled my presentation grades down.
Nevertheless, I look forward to working on my weaknesses in this module by presenting
often in front of a big audience panel and confidently pitching my ideas in the classroom,
without holding back my thoughts, for fear of embarrassment. Overall, I feel I
am extroverted and fun to mingle with and I bring a positive vibe to the
atmosphere. I am looking forward to learning and developing my communication
skills in your classes.
Thank you for your attention. Hope to hear your feedback soon.
Yours Sincerely,
Vishvajith
(Edited on 8th Feb 2025)
Read Priya's, Vellyn's & Johnathon's letters
Thursday, 9 January 2025
Week 1 - Task 3: The Importance of communication skills for engineers [VISHVAJITH & HAN]
"Developing excellent communication skills is absolutely essential to effective leadership. The leader must be able to share knowledge and ideas to transmit a sense of urgency and enthusiasm to others. If a leader can't get a message across clearly and motivate others to act on it, then having a message doesn't even matter." Gilbert Amelio, former President and CEO of National Semiconductor Corp
Personally, after reflecting on this statement, we clearly understand the core message it conveys. Without strong communication skills, a leader will struggle to be effective at every step of their journey. A lack of communication skills prevents leaders from articulating their stance, explanations, and messages to their team. Effective communication is a crucial skillset composed of many smaller abilities. Failure to achieve excellence in communication limits a leader’s capacity to provide insightful knowledge and motivation to their team. As a result, it is as though no message was delivered, leaving the team stagnant and unable to move forward.
Han and I fully agree with Mr. Gilbert Amelio’s assertion that strong communication skills are vital for effective leadership. A skilled communicator can inspire, guide, and connect with their team, ensuring alignment toward shared goals and success. Clear communication also fosters trust among team members, strengthening bonds and encouraging collaboration. Furthermore, great leaders use this skill to motivate and uplift others, boosting morale and productivity.
Conversely, without strong communication skills, leaders risk creating confusion, diminishing team morale, and exacerbating conflicts. It can also lead to poor decision-making, misaligned goals, resistance to change, and a loss of trust or credibility, ultimately jeopardizing both team and organizational success.