Construction’s 3D Visualisation Potential
Announcement posted by DesignBuild Source 04 Jun 2012
The concept of 3D visualisation technology is not new in the construction industry, but has its true potential been realized?
In the 21st century, 3D animation has complemented construction design deliverables, altering the way in which projects are perceived and delivered. With the advent of the fourth dimension – time – 4D was born. It refers to the addition of a time bar to a 3D simulation, allowing the viewer to appreciate the lapsing of time as they see the construction develop. Some individuals in the industry also acknowledge 5D, which incorporates the element of cost as the construction develops.
Building Information Modeling (BIM) goes beyond those dimensions. BIM is an intuitive design tool that provides an interactive experience to stakeholders by allowing them to fly around a project virtually, or jump onto the site and walk into the building to explore, inspect and appreciate what the finished product will be like even before it has been built.
It has been argued that BIM is one of the most revolutionary innovations in the construction sector as it allows for both the contractor and client to visualise the space before it is finished. It can allow for the testing out of potential structural challenges before the construction process, extensively increasing work rate efficiency and productivity....