Virtual reality in the design of modular structures
Also available in:
Innovation in virtual reality is transforming the design and execution of modular structures, as illustrated by concrete examples from several companies. VR plays a crucial role from start to finish of the project, facilitating collaboration and optimizing processes. Companies report significant improvements thanks to VR, and future prospects are promising with ongoing developments in this area.
Innovation at the heart of projects: Concrete examples of VR integration in modular structures
Innovation is disrupting numerous sectors and modular construction is no exception. The use of Virtual Reality (VR) in this field opens up new perspectives. By integrating VR at every stage, from design to execution, pioneering companies are pushing the boundaries of what is possible. A notable example is the Dutch firm, Vertico, specialized in 3D printing of concrete structures. Thanks to VR, they manage to preview and adjust their designs even before launching the printing, thus avoiding costly errors and inefficiencies. Let's also consider the project of the Finnish company Fira, which uses VR to optimize the layout of modular spaces intended for hospitals. VR allows medical teams to 'virtually' visit these spaces before construction, providing invaluable feedback to adapt designs to the specific needs of end-users. This collaborative process ensures a better match between the final project and actual requirements while reducing post-construction adjustments. In the United States, the startup Katerra uses VR to train assembly teams on modular structure assembly before they arrive on site. This immersive method allows for the simulation of complex scenarios and enhances teaching through direct experience. The result: rapid upskilling of operators and a significant reduction in installation errors. These examples illustrate how VR is becoming a lever of innovation, improving the processes of design, validation, and training in modular construction. It is a technology that is spreading and fundamentally transforming the way modular structures are conceived and built.
From design to execution: The crucial role of VR in the development process of modular structures
The integration of VR in the development of modular structures plays a pivotal role from start to finish of the project. During the design phase, VR allows architects and engineers to explore 3D models in real-time, offering a more in-depth understanding of spaces and structures. Unlike traditional 2D plans, VR provides total immersion, enabling the detection of potential inconsistencies or layout issues from the early stages of the project. The use of VR is not limited to simple design visualization. It also facilitates collaboration between the different stakeholders, from technical teams to future users. For instance, the company Buro Happold uses digital twins and VR to simulate the structural and environmental performance of modular buildings. This approach allows testing different scenarios and optimizing technical choices before execution, thereby reducing the risks of delays and cost overruns. The use of VR in the pre-construction phase also allows simulation of the assembly process. Teams can thus prepare effectively, anticipate difficulties, and optimize assembly sequences. The design firm Arup demonstrated that these simulations can significantly reduce construction times and improve on-site work precision. This time-saving and increased precision are essential in a sector where each day of delay can lead to significant costs. Finally, VR is used to supervise and adjust the project in real-time during construction. Thanks to 3D capture devices and interactive virtual environments, project managers can compare field progress with the virtual model, quickly identifying and correcting any deviations from the initial plan. The company Skanska managed to reduce its project management costs by 20% using this method.
The results achieved and best practices: Lessons learned and future prospects in the modular construction field with VR
The initial feedback on the integration of VR in modular construction projects is promising. Companies that have adopted this technology report significant improvements in terms of time, costs, and quality. The reduction in design time, thanks to immersive visualization and faster decision-making, as well as efficiency gains during construction, are major advantages. A common experience feedback is the importance of training and acceptance. VR, while powerful, requires well-thought-out adoption to be effective. It is crucial to train teams in this new technology and support them through this change. Companies that have successfully engaged their employees and fostered a culture of innovation have achieved the best results. BAM Construct UK, for example, implemented intensive training sessions and collaborative workshops in VR for its teams, thus promoting rapid and effective adoption of this technology. Another lesson learned is the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration. VR is more effective when used as a collaboration tool among architects, engineers, clients, and end-users. These exchanges allow for optimizing designs and adapting modular structures to real needs. The project of the modular hospital from the Australian construction company Hickory is an eloquent example. By integrating feedback from medical teams since the early VR design phases, the project not only met deadlines and budgets but also improved functionality and ergonomics of the spaces. In terms of future prospects, VR will continue to democratize and evolve, integrating new technologies such as artificial intelligence and augmented reality. Future developments could allow for even more precise simulations and more effective remote collaborations, paving the way for more agile and responsive modular construction. Moreover, the use of VR could extend beyond the construction phase to include maintenance and dismantling of modular structures. The French company VINCI Construction is already exploring these possibilities, using digital twins to monitor the condition of buildings and anticipate maintenance needs, thus increasing the sustainability and efficiency of modular structures. In conclusion, VR in modular construction is a promising innovation with the potential to transform the industry. The initial results are encouraging, and best practices are beginning to emerge, offering new perspectives for more efficient, sustainable projects adapted to user needs.
- The integration of VR allows better visualization and adjustment of designs in the design phase. - VR facilitates collaboration between different stakeholders, optimizing technical choices before execution. - The use of VR during pre-construction allows simulation and optimization of assembly sequences. - VR helps supervise and adjust projects in real-time during construction, reducing project management costs. - Training and acceptance of VR are crucial for successful adoption, enabling more efficient and sustainable projects.
Related Articles
Case Study: Weissenhofsiedlung 1927
The 1927 Weissenhofsiedlung was a visionary architectural exhibition held in a post-war renewal context in Europe. Renowned architects explored modular approaches and prefabricated construction to propose modern and affordable housing. This initiative durably influenced 20th-century architecture by anticipating contemporary urban development.
Read More →
Turner Construction's Landmark Projects
Turner Construction is an innovator in modular construction, optimizing projects through 3D modeling and digital technologies. Their landmark projects illustrate the effectiveness of prefabrication, reducing construction time and carbon footprint. Turner's solutions redefine the future of urban architecture with durable and adaptable structures.
Read More →
IoT Revolution in Modular Structures
The Internet of Things (IoT) is revolutionizing the management and optimization of modular structures by making them smarter and more responsive. Innovative applications allow for efficient energy and spatial management, as well as improvements in security. Preventive maintenance through IoT extends the lifespan of structures and optimizes resource use.
Read More →