BIM – augmented or virtual reality?
The topic of Building Information Modeling (BIM) is slowly but surely gaining momentum in Switzerland. In Germany, certain IT-supported processes are even set to become mandatory in the planning of new buildings (especially in structural engineering) in the near future. In Switzerland, too, more and more tenders have included the keyword BIM. In short, BIM is about a new common data language for the planning, construction and maintenance of a building. As with every innovation, there are proponents and others. Digitalization will continue to advance in all areas of daily life. Those who jump on board early will reap the rewards in the long term. In the planning process of a building, there are even several parties involved for whom it can be worthwhile in the long term. From the client to the architect to the specialist planners. Everyone can work more efficiently with BIM. The only question is how and when this construct will be introduced as a standard in Switzerland.
From a technical perspective, this development represents an exciting starting point for augmented and virtual reality. The 3D data that is exchanged in the new working method offers a very good basis for creating AR or VR experiences. The multitude of possibilities requires critical reflection on what makes sense where and what does not. There are clear areas of application for the latest AR and VR technology, which are based on BIM. You can find out how these can be used below. We will get to the bottom of the following questions:
Augmentation
How do I translate physical 2D plans into 3D plans?
Efficency
How can internal processes be simplified or enriched?
Innovation
How do I stand out from the competition as a company with new technologies?
Teamwork
How can collaboration within the project team be made easier?
Virtual Reality
A brief recap: the user is 100% immersed in a virtual world and sees nothing of the real outside world.
Used, for example, in new construction projects to convey the interior or living feeling up close without having to build the building first. The user is in a 1:1 simulation of the building and can navigate through it. Simulations can be used to test the future living and working space for its suitability for everyday use. You can answer questions such as: are the corridors wide enough or how will my daily business processes be better in the new office? The specialist planners can also discuss in detail whether the cables, etc. are really in the right place. It also helps to find a common language with the customer.
Augmented reality
The user also sees digital objects or holograms in the real world.
For example, when something needs to be discussed together using a 3D plan and you want to look the other person in the eye at the same time. Several people can “log in” to the application from any location and view the same thing at the same time. For example, you could place a 3D model in the real world on site and view the finished building in its actual environment. Or you could discuss a 1:10 building model in different planning views together at the table in the office, depending on which specialist planners are present.
As always, it starts with an idea or even specific use cases. Share these ideas and use cases. But first things first: the technology is still in its infancy, but it will fundamentally change the way we collaborate. It needs pioneering work and market know-how on your part, but also the necessary enthusiasm and many years of experience in the 3D field on our part. We are ready! Are you too? We would be happy to chat about it without obligation and share our experiences. Take a look at the interview with our AR/VR specialist Robin Waibel on the subject of AR and VR – advantages and disadvantages.
