Extract
Virtual Reality, Augmented Reality and the promising Mixed Reality, once reserved for entertainment, have found transformative applications in the built environment, revolutionizing the conception, presentation and development of real estate projects.
Contents
Beyond Visualization to Create Experiences that Improve Collaboration
As part of the Digital Transformation in Construction, companies in the Architecture, Engineering, Construction and Operation (AECO) industry have taken a bold step into the future by integrating emerging technologies in the Business Technology Architecture; among which stand out Virtual Reality (VR or VR, for its acronym in English), Augmented Reality (AR or AR, for its acronym in English) and the promising Mixed Reality (RM or MR, for its acronym in English).
At their core, these technologies are based on the creation of virtual environments from models, textures, colors, lights, sounds and other elements that are rendered to facilitate the user's visualization and immersion. Its ability to create and simulate three-dimensional environments allows architects, engineers, clients and contractors to fully immerse themselves in a project before the first stone is laid.
In this panorama of innovation, the Building Information Modeling (BIM) emerges as a fundamental pillar. By allowing reuse and take advantage of the detailed information in the BIM model(s) about geometry, materials, installations, and moreTo facilitate the creation of virtual environments, the doors are opened to continuous experimentation with shapes, materials and solutions in an innovative way, thus improving the visualization, communication and validation of designs in the AECO industry.
Virtual Reality in Project Presentation: Immersive Experience for Clients and Contractors
Virtual Reality (VR) stands as a powerful tool in the presentation of real estate projects by creating realistic virtual environments that can be explored in real time so that potential users and clients can experience the asset before its execution, seeking to improve their understanding of it, and the planning and organization of spaces to fully meet their expectations.
By using generative algorithms, multiple virtual environments can be generated, visualizing various arrangements of environments, furniture and equipment, which not only helps users and potential clients to better understand the proposed designs and to make more informed decisions which can save overall project time and money from the pre-construction phase, but also drives active participation in creating the ideal spaces for our target market that:
Facilitates Feedback by allowing users and potential clients to fully immerse themselves in the design from the initial stages.
Anticipate Risks and Solve Problems of habitability, operability and/or usability by exploring the virtual environment before construction, avoiding costly setbacks and project changes.
Evaluate the Environmental and Social Impact that goes beyond the physical structure; a crucial element in contemporary architecture.
Generates Positive Emotions and Sensations by creating immersive experiences that contribute to a deeper connection with the project.
Virtual Tour of Industrial Plant
When moving to the execution of the project, Virtual Reality acts as a collaboration tool that aligns all stakeholders from the beginning. By virtually immersing themselves in projects, contractors can identify logistical challenges, evaluate equipment placement, and plan the construction sequence more effectively. This early collaboration improves communication and teamwork, reduces the possibility of misunderstandings and optimizes project execution.
However, the implementation of Virtual Reality presents challenges for professionals in the sector, and it is crucial to address them to maximize the benefits of this innovative technology.
Requires Specialized Training which may become scarce as it is an emerging technology.
Implementation and Maintenance Costs due to the use of specialized equipment and software.
Compatibility and Interoperability limited between applications and equipment.
Training strategies must be developed, ensuring that professionals are well equipped to use Virtual Reality effectively. Additionally, exploring financing options, sharing resources among industry professionals, and taking advantage of more affordable solutions can help mitigate costs. As well as knowing the strengths and weaknesses of the various technological solutions available, ensuring a smoother implementation of solutions.
In the implementation of Virtual Reality in the AECO industry, tools such as Twinmotion, Sentio VR, Eyecad VR, Unity 3D for Autodesk Revit, GLTF Exporter, GLTF Pro Converter for Autodesk Revit, Export to Unity, SimLab Composer integration for Autodesk Revit stand out. , WebGL exporter for Autodesk Revit and Enscape. These solutions provide not only immersive visual experiences, but also facilitate collaboration and informed decision making.
Augmented Reality and Mixed Reality: Transforming the Presentation and Execution of Projects
The conjunction of Augmented Reality (AR) and Mixed Reality (MR) has unleashed a revolution in the way AECO industry professionals approach the presentation and execution of real estate projects. While Virtual Reality immerses users in completely virtual environments, Augmented Reality adds layers of digital elements in the real world, and Mixed Reality merges the virtual world with the physical environment to offer immersive and interactive experiences that go beyond conventional Virtual Reality.
By using devices such as special glasses (Microsoft HoloLens, Magic Leap), tablets and/or smartphones, professionals can see holograms and digital models superimposed on the real environment. This integration allows users to walk around the virtual models while interacting with the surrounding environment.
Augmented Reality on the Construction Site
Augmented Reality allows all parties to view a digital projection of the design on the jobsite, which includes three-dimensional models of construction details, to achieve a better understanding of the design and facilitate communication, collaboration and decision making on the jobsite.
Mixed Reality takes the experience a step further by allowing users to interact and modify parameters of the digital projection and dynamically evaluate options. This ability to actively interact adds an additional level of engagement and understanding, which is crucial in the initial phases of a project. In turn, professionals can share mixed experiences with colleagues and clients, allowing everyone to see and participate in the discussion, regardless of their physical location. This results in more efficient decision making and a shared understanding of the design from the beginning.
The implementation presents similar challenges to Virtual Reality, such as the need for specialized training, implementation and maintenance costs, and compatibility and interoperability considerations that must be resolved to achieve good application on construction sites.
Conclusion: The Future Horizon and the Cutting Edge of Innovation in the Application of Visualization Technology in the Built Environment
The integration of emerging technologies such as Virtual Reality, Augmented Reality and Mixed Reality has revolutionized the AECO industry. These tools allow professionals to fully immerse themselves in projects before execution, improving design visualization, communication and validation.
Virtual Reality stands out as a powerful tool in the presentation of real estate projects, offering realistic virtual environments that improve understanding and planning of space. Augmented and Mixed Reality take the experience to new levels by integrating digital elements into the real environment, offering immersive and interactive experiences in the workplace.
Despite challenges such as the need for specialized training and implementation costs, early collaboration between contractors and clients improves communication and optimizes project execution, ultimately resulting in a positive work environment that allows overcoming challenges and has a greater positive impact on the profitability of construction projects. Tools like Twinmotion support the implementation of these technologies, providing immersive visual experiences and facilitating collaboration.
On the horizon of the AECO industry, these emerging technologies promise to continue to transform the way we conceive, present and develop real estate projects. Overcoming challenges and constantly exploring technological solutions will consolidate these tools as indispensable allies in building the future.
Want to know more? Visit our Blog: https://www.consultoriatacs.com/en/blog
Ready to transform your company? Write to us at: contacto@consultoriatacs.com
Contact us today and find out how we can grow your business together!
About Pablo Tellaeche (Author):
Owner and main consultant of TACs Consultores, Speaker and University Professor; seeks to bring a true and positive Lean Culture and Digital Transformation to every company with which he has the pleasure of collaborating.
Comments