Loading...

Developing an Interactive Simulation Environment for Improving Time and Cost Planning of Building Projects using Combined BIM-VR Technologies

Amirabadizadeh, Reza | 2023

65 Viewed
  1. Type of Document: M.Sc. Thesis
  2. Language: Farsi
  3. Document No: 56568 (53)
  4. University: Sharif University of Technology, International Campus, Kish Island
  5. Department: Science and Engineering
  6. Advisor(s): Alvanchi, Amin
  7. Abstract:
  8. Despite advancements in Building Information Modeling (BIM) in the construction industry, issues such as the intangibility of building models and a lack of interaction and opinion-sharing still exist. The integration of Virtual Reality with BIM has rectified these problems. Quantity surveying, material estimation, solving design problems during modeling and preparing a building model containing information are some of the advantages of using BIM in this research. Alongside BIM, VR tools were employed as a mean to increase interaction with the user, boost marketing and pre-sales, create alternative options for building components, and estimate cost and time. Following the development of a building model via BIM-based software in the three stages of structure, architecture and facilities, the model is introduced into the UnrealEngine software. UnrealEngine provides users with a vast number of choices through the Blueprint Visual Scripting program. A toolkit was designed that made shifting between alternative scenarios for different objects in the building possible while experiencing a non-physical presence in the building area. Moreover, by hiding or making an item transparent, one can access the infrastructure or facilities. Time and costs are calculated in each step and displayed to the user in real time. In regards to the time dimension, a tool was developed that allowed simultaneous or parallelization of different tasks in terms of time. Two different approaches were utilized for cost estimation in a case study in this research. In the first approach, cost estimates were carried out by the way of the standard method and the second approach made the construction cost estimations using BIM software. The final results indicated a 17% cost reduction with BIM, compared to the standard method. Additionally, by employing VR tools and its interactive capabilities, modifications were made to the building model based on the buyers’ taste and budget, such as the relocation of a water heater from the façade to the back of the building. The results of this research can significantly reduce construction costs in larger projects, help with a better selection among various choices for design and materials, and prevent the costs of changes made after construction begins and contracts are signed
  9. Keywords:
  10. Virtual Reality (VR)Environment ; Building Information Modeling ; Time-Cost Optimization ; Interactive Video ; Construction Management ; Construction Industry Projects ; Building Information Modeling (BIM)Applications

 Digital Object List

 Bookmark

No TOC