Curriculum Overview
The AutoCAD curriculum at Balwant Singh Mukhiya Bsm College Of Engineering is meticulously structured to ensure a progressive and comprehensive understanding of computer-aided design principles. The program spans four years, with each semester building upon the previous one to develop both theoretical knowledge and practical expertise.
| Semester | Course Code | Course Title | Credit Structure (L-T-P-C) | Prerequisites |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | ENG101 | Engineering Mathematics I | 3-1-0-4 | - |
| 1 | PHY101 | Physics for Engineers | 3-1-0-4 | - |
| 1 | CHM101 | Chemistry for Engineers | 3-1-0-4 | - |
| 1 | CS101 | Introduction to Computer Programming | 2-0-2-3 | - |
| 1 | ENG102 | Engineering Graphics | 2-0-2-3 | - |
| 1 | ENG103 | Basic Electrical Engineering | 3-1-0-4 | - |
| 2 | ENG201 | Engineering Mathematics II | 3-1-0-4 | ENG101 |
| 2 | MAT201 | Materials Science | 3-1-0-4 | - |
| 2 | MEC201 | Mechanics of Materials | 3-1-0-4 | - |
| 2 | CS201 | Data Structures and Algorithms | 2-0-2-3 | CS101 |
| 2 | ENG202 | Computer-Aided Design Lab | 0-0-4-2 | - |
| 3 | ENG301 | Machine Design | 3-1-0-4 | MEC201 |
| 3 | MEC301 | Thermodynamics | 3-1-0-4 | - |
| 3 | ENG302 | Fluid Mechanics | 3-1-0-4 | - |
| 3 | CS301 | Database Management Systems | 2-0-2-3 | CS101 |
| 3 | ENG303 | Advanced CAD Techniques | 2-0-4-3 | ENG202 |
| 4 | ENG401 | Industrial Engineering | 3-1-0-4 | - |
| 4 | MEC401 | Manufacturing Processes | 3-1-0-4 | - |
| 4 | ENG402 | Project Management | 3-1-0-4 | - |
| 4 | CS401 | Software Engineering | 2-0-2-3 | CS201 |
| 4 | ENG403 | Capstone Project | 0-0-8-6 | - |
Each course in the AutoCAD program is designed to build upon previous knowledge and develop practical skills through hands-on learning. For instance, the foundational course Engineering Graphics introduces students to basic drafting techniques, which are later expanded upon in advanced courses such as Advanced CAD Techniques. The laboratory component of each semester reinforces theoretical concepts with real-world applications.
Advanced Departmental Electives
The department offers several advanced elective courses that allow students to specialize and explore areas of interest within the AutoCAD domain:
- Building Information Modeling (BIM) for Smart Cities: This course explores how BIM integrates with urban planning, sustainability practices, and smart city technologies. Students learn to create detailed building models that include data about materials, energy usage, and lifecycle costs.
- Parametric Design Using AutoCAD: This elective delves into parametric modeling techniques that enable dynamic design modifications based on input parameters. It combines mathematical principles with practical CAD applications.
- Digital Manufacturing & Additive Technologies: Students are introduced to 3D printing, CNC machining, and other manufacturing technologies that rely heavily on AutoCAD for creating digital models and toolpaths.
- Architectural Visualization: This course focuses on using AutoCAD in conjunction with rendering software to create photorealistic visualizations of architectural designs. It emphasizes lighting, textures, and scene composition.
- Advanced Mechanical Modeling: Students explore complex mechanical systems using AutoCAD and specialized simulation tools. This includes stress analysis, kinematic modeling, and mechanical assembly design.
- Sustainable Design & Environmental Impact Assessment: Integrating AutoCAD with environmental data, this course teaches students how to evaluate the ecological footprint of designs and implement sustainable practices.
- CAD for Automotive Systems: Specialized in automotive design, this elective covers vehicle component modeling, aerodynamics simulation, and integration with CAD tools used in automotive R&D.
- Urban Planning & GIS Integration: This course combines urban design principles with geographic information systems (GIS) to create intelligent city models that support planning and policy development.
- Product Development Using CAD Tools: Students learn how to develop innovative consumer products from concept to manufacturing, leveraging AutoCAD for prototyping, simulation, and documentation.
- Virtual Reality in Design: This course introduces students to immersive design environments where AutoCAD models are visualized and interacted with using VR hardware such as HTC Vive or Oculus Rift.
Project-Based Learning Philosophy
The department believes that project-based learning is essential for developing practical skills and fostering innovation. Students engage in both mini-projects and a final-year thesis, providing them with opportunities to apply their knowledge in real-world scenarios.
Mini-projects are undertaken during the third year of study and typically last 6 weeks. These projects allow students to work in small teams on specific challenges related to design, simulation, or manufacturing. Each project is mentored by a faculty member who provides guidance throughout the process.
The final-year capstone project is a comprehensive endeavor that spans the entire academic year. Students select a topic relevant to their specialization and work closely with a faculty advisor to develop a solution using AutoCAD as the primary tool. The project culminates in a presentation to industry experts and faculty members.
Students are encouraged to propose their own project ideas or choose from a list of pre-approved topics provided by faculty advisors. The selection process involves a proposal submission, followed by a review session where students present their concept and methodology to the department.