Augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) have accumulated a large number of followers in the construction industry in a very short period of time. These technologies are being incorporated into most construction projects, as they are proving to be a huge asset to civil engineers and architects.
Although the industry has been relatively slow to adopt new technologies, the pandemic has forced construction companies to rethink their priorities, opening the door to technologies including AR/VR that will have an increasing impact in the coming years.
While AR and VR are still in the development phase, they have the potential to change the future of architecture as they mature and become more widely accepted.
Application of augmented reality and virtual reality in construction projects
What are augmented reality AR and virtual reality VR?
Augmented reality is defined as a realistic view of a scene in augmented reality by extracting inputs from the real world by a computer. In contrast, virtual reality can be defined as a computer-created simulated environment into which viewers can enter with the help of headsets and goggles.
There is often some confusion when it comes to distinguishing between the two technologies, but the main difference between the two is that VR creates a fully simulated environment, while AR superimposes computer-generated images and information on real-world images.
Simply put, virtual reality is a digital experience, while augmented reality combines the real and digital into an immersive environment.
How does AR/VR technology work?
AR/VR technology, first create a 3D model and combine it with all the details of the project. This data is digitally displayed in real time in the user's physical environment and can be viewed with goggles or augmented reality devices.
Does the construction industry need AR/VR?
Depending on the level of complexity, a construction project can take months or years to complete. This makes it physically impractical for engineers to inspect every small detail of each component of the project after it has been built.
But AR/VR allows us to enter the house, inspect every corner even before the foundation is laid, and combine digital and physical views to help the construction team improve the efficiency and accuracy of the project.
For example, Avontus Software developed Scaffold VR, a virtual reality app that provides digital walkthroughs of designs created using the company's scaffolding designer software.
The app also enables users to view and share these designs in a 3D virtual environment. Team members and customers can use it to access drawings from anywhere, helping them avoid any errors and costly rework.
While traditional 3D models have replaced blueprints and rough models, VR has much more to offer project stakeholders. Augmented reality, on the other hand, can improve the way humans work with digital machines. AR adoption is expected to grow broadly, in part because of its low entry cost compared to VR.
Advantages and applications of AR/VR
1. Design
- VR technology can be combined with BIM to help visualize design and on-site BIM information. This can help the project check for design coordination errors.
- VR can also serve as a powerful communication tool for designers, helping them explain concepts to clients and other stakeholders.
- AR can help generate 3D models directly on a 2D plane, and can be combined with 3D modeling software and BIM to create interactive models for projects. This not only increases the degree of customer involvement in the project, but also prevents delays, reduces cost overruns, and identifies any errors in advance.
Virtual reality and BIM integration to visualize on-site design
- AR devices can measure the physical properties of a space, such as height, width, and depth. This information can be incorporated into the model to produce a more precise structure. Accurate measurements will ensure efficiency and help determine the exact labor and materials required for construction.
2. Training
- VR can be used to simulate real-world scenarios and environments, and can be used to provide employees with practical experience and training before entering the work site.
- Construction companies also spend a lot of money on safety projects that not only take time, but also don't always communicate properly with workers. However, augmented reality headsets can be used to demonstrate virtual walkthroughs, instructions, and safety conditions to workers. This direct learning can increase safety awareness and can also provide intuitive training, reducing training costs and downtime.
【To be continued】
The twelfth day of the eighth lunar month
2023.9.26
[Some pictures are from the Internet, invaded and deleted]