Implementation of Component Based Design: A Pedagogical and Actual Case Study

This paper explores pedagogical and practical ramifications of implementing the component-based design paradigm through the actual construction process of a simple wood frame house for Habitat for Humanity. The house was digitally-modeled as part of an elective construction class, then physically constructed by students and faculty of the College of DAAP at the University of Cincinnati as part of a community service exercise. The digital model and a detailed database of individual components were mined in order to explore and exploit the complete and accurate electronic modeling of building, prior to actual construction.