Abstract:

This communication delve into the competences acquired in Descriptive Geometry, a subject that is taught in the first course of the Degree in Building Engineering, University of Seville. We will try to deepen them – by means of new technologies - in the Master Thesis Project (MTP).

MTPs are traditionally linked to highly elaborated and specific programs and contents, collected in subjects contemplated in the Master course or, in its defect, in the higher courses of the Degree. There is a common belief that the knowledge and skills offered in higher academic levels are more specific and, therefore, more likely to become in a research work.

We differ from that point of view. Subjects such as Geometry - developed in the first course- have a fruitful field of research related, in turn, with new technologies: CAD-CAM systems, software of simulation based at graphic and geometric mechanism, digital fabrication, etc. Many of these contents are not contemplated -precisely by its novelty- in any subject studied in the whole grade.

In that sense, we propose two fundamental actions to stimulate research in Geometry and produce a transfer of knowledge from researchers to MTP’s students. Firstly, we propose the creation of strategies so that the students know the entire offer at research work, specifically the research competences offered by geometry and its variants.

Second, we propose a methodology, at lecture room, that encourages the student to develop creativity, as a tool to find new challenges and new relationships between knowledge and skills -acquired in the early years of the degree- with the different fields of research. From the point of view of tutorial action, we propose a guided learning process, according to Mihaly’s premises clear goals, immediate feedback, challenges commensurate with skills, etc., to promote in the student intrinsic motivation during the development of the research.

Analysis and optimization of energy efficiency based on geometric criteria:
This MTP is developed by Alicia Domínguez González (student). The project analyses different sizes and forms of window hollows, and proposes different systems of sun protection. The project makes a comparison between all of them, measuring energy efficiency on purely geometric criteria. Finally, establishes conclusions from different analyses that allow him to optimize the energy saving of any building.

Analysis of the shadow factor and proposal of a new method of calculation:
This MTP is developed by Rafael Sollero López (student). The work carries out an analysis of one of the geometric parameters “the shadow factor” that has great weight in the energy certification of a building. After the geometric analysis, we propose a new method of calculation, denominated “Corrected Shadow Factor”.

Analysis of the environmental comfort in relation to the soleing (and solar geometry) in open spaces:
This project is elaborated by Rafael Sollero López (student). His MTP focuses on improving the design of control devices for sun’s shadow. An efficient design based on solar geometry is one of the key aspects that determine that people can experience a sense of well-being, in open spaces.

Keywords:

Master Thesis Project, Tutorial Action, Geometry, Creativity, New Tecnologies, CAD CAM Systems.