VR MAKES 3D DESIGN A REALITY FOR CONSTRUCTION TEAMS
VR MAKES 3D DESIGN A REALITY FOR CONSTRUCTION TEAMS
Balfour Beatty is also pushing boundaries by using virtual reality applications for the M4 Smart Motorway Programme . The company previously used VR on its sister M6 project for plant / people interface training . Parnell ’ s team runs design models and creates yellow , amber and red zones to train operatives on where they should stand inside of the environment . In the VR room , this translates to the permanent works design providing a platform to enhance safety before construction staff visit the site for real .
The M4 Smart Motorway Programme has further benefited from this innovation by allowing workers to wander around sections of the project to gain a vision for the ultimate aims of the design . VR links delivery team offices , enabling exploration of the site without the need for team members to be in the same room or having to travel to site for presentations , saving time and money .
“ We use a HTC VIVE , Oculus Rift scenario , so people can more easily understand the project while immersed in that environment ,” reveals Parnell . “ We want to push boundaries . We ’ re aiming to get 4D sequencing inside of the VR environment to review designs , health and safety risks and buildability . It will be the next step-change in the industry .”
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