Architectural engineering, also known as building engineering, is an engineering discipline that deals with the technological aspects and multi-disciplinary approach to planning, design, construction, and operation of buildings, such as analysis and integrated design of environmental systems.
Architecture is the science of designing buildings and other physical structures. The duration of B.Tech architecture undergraduate course is 5 years. The course mainly deals with the artistic aspects of a building and focuses less on the mathematical aspects of a building.
An architectural engineer applies the skills of many engineering disciplines to the design, construction, operation, maintenance, and renovation of buildings while paying attention to their impacts on the surrounding environment. In countries such as Canada, UK, and Australia, architectural engineering is more commonly known as Building engineering, building systems engineering, or building services engineering. In some languages, such as Korean, "architect" is literally translated as "architectural engineer".
With the establishment of a separate NCEES Professional Engineering registration examination in the 1990s, architectural engineering is now recognized as a distinct engineering discipline in the United States. But many practicing 'architectural engineers' hold degrees or registration in civil, mechanical, electrical, or another engineering field and become architectural engineers via experience. Conversely, many degree-holding architectural engineers have professional registration in civil or mechanical engineering, for example. The number of architectural engineering degree programs is increasing.
Roles of architectural engineers
Architectural engineers' roles can overlap with that of the architect and other project engineers. Like architects, they seek to achieve optimal designs within the overall constraints, except using primarily the tools of engineering rather than architecture. In most parts of the world, architectural engineers are not entitled to practice architecture unless they are also licensed as architects. In some jurisdictions, registered professional architectural engineers are limited, by virtue of the exams taken, to practicing only one or more of the component areas of building engineering practice such as mechanical (HVAC/plumbing/etc.), electrical, structural, or fire protection.
In recent years there has been increasing emphasis on sustainable and green design, including in engineered building systems. Architectural engineers increasingly seek LEED ((R) USGBC) Accredited Design Professional (LAPD) status in addition to their Professional Engineering registration.
Some FAQs of B.Tech in architectural engineering.
What do architectural engineers do?
Architectural engineers apply science and technology to the real world by designing buildings that enhance our standard of living and improve our quality of life. They do this by combining building systems – structural, electrical, mechanical, lighting, acoustics and fire protection - into an integrated whole
What is the difference between an architect and an architectural engineer?
The key difference between an architect and an engineer is that an architect focuses more on the artistry and design of the building, while the engineer focuses more on the technical and structural side. Architects design a structure by considering the customer's needs and requirements
One of the many reasons why this course is one of the best is that Architectural engineering as a single integrated field of study which means that it has an integrated course which helps us to learn various things side by side with our ongoing studies
Its multi-disciplinary engineering approach is what differentiates architectural engineering from architecture (the field of the architect): which is an integrated, separate and single, field of study when compared to other engineering disciplines.
Through training in and appreciation of architecture, the field seeks integration of building systems within its overall building design. Architectural engineering includes the design of building systems including engineering practice such as mechanical (HVAC/plumbing/etc.), electrical, structural, fire protection, structural systems. In some university programs, students are required to concentrate on one of the systems; in others, they can receive a generalist architectural or building engineering degree.
Distinction between Architecture and Architectural Engineering.
A common confusion is the distinction between architecture and architectural engineering. In essence, architectural engineering is the engineering discipline for the analysis, design, and construction of building systems. Architects are directly responsible for the form and appearance of a building, including the way in which people use and experience the spaces of the building. Architects traditionally act as the leader of the design team, and are thus known as the 'prime professional'. They coordinate the efforts of the various engineering and other design consultants for building projects.
Before about 1975, architectural engineering graduates in the U.S. typically went to work as 'technical architects'. Since that time architectural engineering has defined itself as consulting engineers for buildings. Architectural engineers thus concentrate on ensuring that "the buildings work", e.g., that they stand up, that the HVAC systems operate well, that light and electrical power are delivered safely and as needed, and that fire safety is addressed.
By the 1950s, there were approximately 60 architectural engineering degree programs. However, as architecture split from engineering -- most architecture programs were in engineering schools -- many architectural engineering programs lost institutional support. But from a low of eight programs in the early 1980s, and with the redefinition of the discipline as 'engineers for building systems', architectural engineering education is experiencing significant growth. Demand for admission to the programs, and quality of applicants, is very high.
