Immersive Technologies for Design and Construction
Immersive technologies like virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) are revolutionizing architecture, engineering, and construction. Originally advanced by gaming and entertainment pioneers, VR has turned out to be a particularly relevant technology for architecture. For the first time, architects can simulate the visceral experience of a building design for clients, collaborators, and other stakeholders—not only what it looks like, but what it feels like to be there. Blueprints, 2D renderings, and scale models can’t come close to the experience offered by immersive technologies. And AR is finding a role in construction as a means of intuitively mapping the digital to the physical.
In many ways, the role of extended reality (XR) in AEC is just beginning. Autodesk recently announced a definitive agreement to acquire The Wild, maker of two different VR tools that enable AEC professionals to present, collaborate, and review projects together in a cloud-based virtual environment. The first, also called The Wild, lends itself more to ideation and collaboration in the early phases, while IrisVR is tailored to coordination, issue tracking, and managing construction, as AEC Magazine details.
The restrictions of the pandemic made these kinds of technologies particularly important, but, even without a global lockdown, being able to experience a building design virtually before it’s built can be an important way to accelerate the design process and help stakeholders make the best decisions. Further, these cloud-based tools can reduce the need for travel, which is more sustainable and saves time.
Ready to learn more about the role of immersive tech in architecture? Check out these related resources:
Explore the processes that went into creating a VR conceptual house—highlighting innovative practices, new interactive technologies, and immersive simulations.
AR is uniting design and construction teams in a hybrid environment. Learn how it’s integrating digital 3D models with real-world building sites and transforming the way industry works, learns, and interacts with the environment.
Collaborate better and iterate faster by incorporating AR and VR into your workflows, well before construction even begins. Autodesk’s Nicolas Fonta explains how immersive technologies are leading to better outcomes.
The use of VR platforms is contributing to the convergence of industries. Discover how to build a virtual world without limits and unleash your creative potential, regardless of your role or profession.
