The following is an outline of the knowledge and practical skills required at each achievement level in the geometric modelling.
Achieving a level requires passing the assessment for that level. Assessment can be undertaken for free on the Square One website or at one of many accredited training centres around the world. Each level must be passed consecutively - it is not possible to achieve Level 2 without having first successfully achieved Level 1.
Level 1 (Understanding) - View
At this level users should be able to access an analysis model and extract the basic information they need without having to go through another user. This typically means understanding what metrics are referenced and how to display them in a visual or tabulated form, as well as being able to extract the images and/or tables required for use in other documentation or drawings.
Knowledge
- Understand the ECOTECT user interface.
Read more... - Know the difference between object and node mode.
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Practical Skills
- Able to modify existing geometry.
Read more... - Able to switch between object and node mode.
Read more... - Change between 2D and 3D model views.
Read more... - Able to select and deselect objects and nodes.
Read more... - Interactively nudge objects in a model.
Read more... - Able to apply numeric transformations to objects.
Read more... - Able to view and set node, object and zone properties.
Read more... - Able to adjust OpenGL views and set sketchiness parameters.
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Level 2 (Capability) - View & Assist
Level 2 users should be able - under supervision - to carry out most of the basic tasks such as creating and editing building models suitable for this kind of analysis, undertaking most of the simpler calculations and formatting results appropriate to the specific needs of each project.
Knowledge
- Understand the fundamental inter-object relationships in ECOTECT.
Read more... - Understand basic model organisation using layers and zones.
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Practical Skills
- Able to create a simple model.
Read more... - Able to insert windows and other child objects.
Read more... - Able to create and edit simple roof objects.
Read more... - Able to join and split objects.
Read more... - Able to create/recreate inter-object relationships.
Read more... - Able to interactively transform objects and nodes.
Read more... - Able top create and update camera views.
Read more... - Able to create simple movies and animations.
Read more... - Able to store and recall 3D Editor views.
Read more... - Able to edit and assign materials to individual objects.
Read more... - Able to import simple 3D geometry from another application.
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Level 3 (Proficiency) - View, Assist & Produce
Level 3 users should have basic proficiency, being able to independently build models suitable this type of analysis, undertake those analysis and produce the results and/or other deliverables required for any project.
Knowledge
- Understand how scripts work in ECOTECT and how they can be loaded and edited.
Read more... - Understand material and element properties and what is used in different calculations.
Read more... - Understand schedules and operational profiles and where they are used in ECOTECT.
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Practical Skills
- Able to trim and profile objects using the cutting plane.
Read more... - Able to create curved objects that maintain links with a parent.
Read more... - Able to create new materials using an existing element as a base.
Read more... - Able to create and assign operational schedules to objects and zones.
Read more... - Able to import more complex 3D geometry from another application.
Read more... - Able to create more complex movies and animations.
Read more... - Able to write a simple script to automate a repetitive task.
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Level 4 (Expertise) - View, Assist, Produce & Manage
Level 4 users require real expertise, able to determine the types of analysis required to solve specific design problems, devise the work flows and schedules required to undertake them and effectively manage and supervise the whole process to ensure the timeliness and quality of all deliverables.
Knowledge
- Understand in more detail the material and element properties used in ECOTECT.
Read more... - Understand the LUA scripting language and the many different ways to interact with the ECOTECT model.
Read more... - Know the many different ways to create and style dynamic reports within ECOTECT.
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Practical Skills
- Able to create entirely new materials with full properties.
Read more... - Able to write a detailed script to accomplish tasks not otherwise possible using the interface alone.
Read more... - Able to generate a dynamic HTML report that derives its own data from the model.
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Level 5 (Innovation) - "Break New Ground"
To reach Level 5, users must demonstrate real innovation in the application of air flow analysis within a design project. There is no direct assessment for this level, instead individuals or firms are required to submit a short article for review by the Natural Frequency editorial board that describes a specific project and details the innovative application of geometric modelling.