Virtual Reality in BIM: Utilising Technology for Enhanced Experiences

22 Apr 21

Virtual Reality in BIM: Utilising Technology for Enhanced Experiences

The virtual reality (VR) market has shown to be extremely sought out from statistics. In 2016, the market value was 46.4 million and was expected to hit 354.3 million last year, which it definitely has promised. VR has now evolved into a multi-faceted technology that has invaded industries like construction and engineering from simply being the hot trend in gaming and entertainment.

Building Information Modelling (BIM) is the technology that allows for the rendering of a structure into one digital model that engineers, architects and all other members of the project team can work on.

Since this method was introduced, many 3D laser scanning companies have started offering BIM services that begins with a 3D laser scan and ends with an as built 3D BIM model that could easily be shared to all members of the team. But how do you utilise both VR and BIM in a project?

  • Architects and designers can use VR to better visualise projects.

Using Leicester measured survey and rendering that into 3D BIM models is already a huge adventure for architects and designers because it gives them the convenience of having the most accurate representation of a structure.

But with VR, this process becomes more exciting, especially for collaborations because architects and designers will not only see their design in 3D, but they can also create a real-life experience of that model by drawing buildings, objects and other structures around that model to know exactly how it would look and feel once the building is completed.

  • Engineers can ensure the safety of projects.

It’s no secret that safety has always been one of the biggest risks in any construction project. But with the help of both VR and BIM, engineers can now create simulations of projects so that experts will have a real-time experience that will allow them to check on the integrity of a building and make necessary precautionary measures to reduce preventable accidents and avoid costly mistakes.

VR can even be used after a structure is completed because it can be incorporated into tours and training programmes where employees or tenants can easily get to know their space without having to go around the building themselves.
It would also be easier for safety personnel to conduct lectures on safety or respond to incidents promptly since they already have a real-life rendering of the building.

  • Clients get a real feel of the building while it’s being built.

One of the biggest benefits of VR and 3D BIM models is the ability to allow clients to enjoy their building even before it’s completely built.

By combining both technologies, you can let your clients see the progress of the building through VR-compatible models, so they know exactly if they’re getting what they want or if they need to make changes to satisfy their goals.
This way, you get to ensure the satisfaction of clients while following your timelines.

  • You can promote better collaboration within your team.

When you combine them, it’s easier to make sure that every team member is on the same page and possible errors could be avoided to make projects more efficient.
Both these technologies are also very important in reducing the chances of delays and reworks on projects, better team management during the construction process and improved collaboration between team members to get the job done fast and efficiently.
When everyone sees the different elements of a building, it’s easier to provide feedback and make sure that everyone is working on the same goals.
Virtual reality and Building Information Modelling (BIM) are two of the most utilised tools for innovating construction projects today. And the best part is, you can always learn from the experts in these fields by working with the right companies.

By hiring a 3D laser scanning Leicester company that also offers VR services, for instance, it would be easier for you to incorporate these technologies into your projects while learning new tips and tricks about them. So, if you haven’t embraced VR and BIM into your system yet, this is definitely the best time to take that first step now.