Virtual reality in construction
Virtual reality (VR) technologies, such as VR headsets and immersive VR caves, bring to life how proposed designs will respond to the needs of our clients. Using these technologies we can create a fully immersive environment that allows different scenarios to be explored to ensure the best process when building starts.
- Virtual reality
A fully virtual reality experience involves us creating virtual mock-ups of projects that engage customers and end-users, with feedback incorporated in the construction process. - Augmented reality
Augmented reality differs from virtual reality as it provides users with a view of the real world, which is then overlaid with relevant project information in their line of sight. - Mixed reality
Multiple reality technologies can create an environment where both virtual and physical worlds coexist. It can be useful when a customer wishes to extend an existing facility while understanding the impact of this work.
Work in action
We've already begun to put VR technology into practice at the New Papworth Hospital, a world-class specialist healthcare facility based on the Cambridge Biomedical Campus.
To ensure we get the right design feedback, we invited client, healthcare, and facilities management teams to get involved in the development of clinical drawings and room data sheets.
With more than 150 room types, and as many as eight staff to consult for each, this could have been a very time-consuming process.
To combat this, we conducted the design consultations using 3D models, providing clinicians with an interactive touch screen where equipment could be re-arranged. Using this virtual reality technology, we were able to map out a room from every angle including all its medical equipment. This helped us to gather constructive feedback in a considerably shorter period of time.
This collaborative approach to digital engineering has helped to engage and excite more stakeholders in the design solution process.