Top opportunities to leverage a VR Based Workflow in BIM-enabled projects and collaboration

Abstract

Lucrative project delivery is based on Building Information Modeling (BIM), and decisive collaboration. Along these lines, the visualization of a BIM model through immersive technology or VR is the most effective method to gain a greater perspective in the world of construction. Various project issues can be addressed in construction such as operational feasibility, time, cost, and more. As BIM contains visual and well-informed information, it can improve project efficiency, productivity, cost, and time. In this article, we discuss the integration of Virtual Reality (VR) to augment BIM projects through VR based workflows and project collaboration.

Introduction

A positive & successful BIM-based project delivery is based on mutual collaboration. This primarily relies on high-quality & information-rich 3-D models. The ability of a BIM model to augment project delivery requires much more than large computer display units, it requires project stakeholder presence as well. An immersive medium like Virtual Reality is a highimpact solution to visualize a 3D model. A Virtual Reality simulation eliminates most of the onsite problems like installation, feasibility, and more. Furthermore, various Virtual Reality tools have been introduced in the market, but little is known about their adoption in the world of AEC.

This article focuses on a VR based workflow to augment BIM projects through collaborative techniques. This includes using immersive technology to solve various on-site challenges using actual BIM models. AEC projects have long been exposed to project delays and growing building costs. The need to eliminate unnecessary costs can be challenging, but the adoption of new technology can significantly reduce this risk through new Virtual Reality (VR).

Challenges in the adoption of a VR based workflow

• Inability to adopt new technology based on an old working mindset
• The inability of the workforce to understand new immersive processes and tools
• The inability of a firm or enterprise to invest in VR devices

Benefits of using a VR based workflow

• Better project coordination – onsite and offsite
• Identify potential challenges in project design
• Greater efficiency in building up a robust information model for a digital twin
• Better chance of winning bids or tenders
• Reduce project cost and turnaround times

The adoption of BIM in the AEC sector

The true adoption and value of BIM were initiated a decade ago in the US & UK. Looking at the potential value that BIM has to offer, other countries in Europe and the Middle-East followed in the same footsteps. But, there were potential challenges in the adoption of BIM –

• AEC companies and professionals could not understand the actual process
• The inability of enterprises, owners, and stakeholders to change building mindset
• Inability to understand long-term benefits
• Skill-set inadequacy
• Inadequate investment to adopt the BIM process through its process and technology
• Collaboration issues between various departments or trades

But, through greater adoption of BIM on a global scale, owners, AEC enterprises, and various engineering professionals embraced the world of Building Information Modeling (BIM). Every company or owner adopts BIM at various levels, viz. BIM level 1, BIM level 2, or BIM level 3.

There are many reasons why a VR based workflow should be adopted in a BIM project, but there are 5 principal opportunities that project owners, AEC firms, and stakeholders need to leverage through VR based workflows.

As modern construction technology is shaping new project processes and workflows, it is pretty evident that it delivers greater value with smaller device sizes. From apps on mobile to hand-held laser scanners, and VR glasses, technology has set the road on solving major construction problems, and embrace BIM projects with substantial rewards.

Virtual Reality workflows are the next best thing in 3D BIM modeling, as it places project stakeholders right inside a 3D environment using modern immersive technology.

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