VR and AR Simulations in Architectural Design by AEC Companies

Virtual reality and augmented reality have existed for decades, but the original adoption was slow and limited to the gaming industry. During the past few years, this technology has gained popularity among architects. There is an aggressive race between tech companies to introduce practical applications to the field of architecture and engineering.

As the design process, building maintenance, and energy consumption of buildings improve, the architecture, engineering, and construction industry constantly develops and adopts new technologies. Aside from all recent adoptions, virtual reality and augmented reality have the greatest potential to impact the upcoming years. It is clear that visualization and interactivity offer architects a better way to present their designs to clients and build their business.

AEC Company Adoption

In the AEC industry, for instance, VR or AR can differentiate between internal communication processes within the team and external communication with clients. In the internal review process, architects, engineering consultants, contractors, and subcontractors use the models. Whenever collaboration with external parties is required, they can access the same models.

The models are meant to bridge communication between the team and their clients, including end users and funding institutions. Models from a project might differ in details, particularly in their annotations, despite being part of the same project.

Marketing

It is common for real estate developers to begin their projects without knowing who their buyers are. Virtual reality is another type of visualization, even though it's more sophisticated than static and animated renders. Using only a plan to market a property reduces the financial risk for every developer.

Using online platforms, including social media or video sharing sites, developers can make VR gear more accessible now that it is no longer an expensive exclusive.

In VR models, the building should see and feel like it look and feel once the construction is completed. A model with interactive features should give it an edge over competition still using static analysis renderings. In addition to improving online exposure, a broader pool of potential buyers is more likely to be reached.

Hidden Visualization

Using VR models within the AEC industry involves various priorities and approaches. Usually, users create a virtual world that resembles a real world environment with the aim of visualizing it. Architectural visualization aims to achieve this goal for many people.

However, there is another functionality that has been relatively underexplored. Within the virtual world, technicalities that are otherwise invisible can be observed. As VR technology advances, it will soon be able to visualize abstract matters such as wind speed, light intensity, or direction.

Portfolio

By using VR models to showcase their engineering experience and expertise, architectural firms will be able to showcase their expertise. The 3D VR models may not always guarantee victory, but they are a great way to showcase proficiency in the finer details.

VR is a step ahead of static and animated renders in terms of sophistication, not only in terms of aesthetics but also in terms of how the visualization allows close examination. By completing a project to the highest standard, it becomes a testament to the firm's thoroughness, attention to detail, and willingness to go the extra mile.

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