Construction takes a reality check

Imagine simulating the construction of a building so you can envision your project on a grand scale, before stepping inside and exploring the structure's nooks and crannies – all from the comfort of your desk.

Thanks to the introduction of virtual reality (VR) technology to the construction industry, this – and a whole lot more – is now possible.

Virtual reality has had a profound impact on the video gaming industry, but it now also has the capacity to improve the ways architects and builders design and execute construction projects.

Designers have traditionally created physical models to help simulate the overall look and feeling of a project, but these models are often time consuming to build and any later changes can prove a costly exercise.

On the other side of the fence, clients might find it challenging to visualise the project in 3D, and can easily misinterpret written plans. By using VR, clients can enjoy an immersive experience as the project is brought to life. They can then communicate with designers ahead of time to fine-tune the project before actual construction takes place, thereby reducing any margin for error and accelerating build times.

Melbourne-based tech company, Liminal 360, specialises in building VR experiences for the property market. It's seen the benefits of adopting the technology in construction processes first hand.

"We've seen virtual reality revolutionising the construction industry for many years now," Liminal 360 Managing Director, Nick Busietta, told constructionsales.com.au.

"In the past, purpose-built simulation centres were used to facilitate semi-immersive training programs with very positive results," he says.

"Nowadays, more advanced systems such as the HTC Vive have emerged, providing full immersion while a person can walk around wearing a virtual reality headset and interact with the space via a pair of handheld wireless controllers."

VR technology could also allow for greater collaboration as team members will be able to have a virtual meeting inside the actual construction project.

There is a plethora of VR devices to choose from besides HTC Vive, including Oculus Rift, Samsung Gear, PlayStation VR and Google Daydream.

While the technology is still very new and raw, the prospect of developing a construction project in a virtual environment certainly has its benefits and presents some exciting opportunities. However, will Australia's construction industry embrace the technology?

"There is a growing awareness in the construction industry that VR is more than just a gaming platform and some companies such as AECOM have already reaped the rewards of early adoption," Busietta says.

"I think the issue is that many companies don't know where to start."

So, as the Australian construction industry continues to progress, could you see VR technology bringing your company's projects to life?