Virtual Design Review

BIM Execution Plan

 Virtual Design Review
BIM Execution Plan
Author’s Note

Thank you for your interest in VRcollab’s BIM enhancement document.

In the following pages you will find a comprehensive outline of the steps required to create a VR inclusive BIM
Execution Plan (BEP). This is the product of a series of in-depth discussions and our learnings from real-world
project implementations of VR that we have undertaken with our industry partners. Through an iterative
process of refinement we distilled the most critical aspects of VR that will be crucial in making your BEP
relevant in 2019 and beyond.

We hope you find the document useful, and it has been our pleasure to be part of your journey into VR.

Warmest Regards,

The VRcollab Team.

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Contents

1. Virtual Design Review 2

1.1 General Scope and Goals 2

1.2 Virtual Reality Technology 2

1.3 Collaborative Platform 2

2. VRcollab LITE 3

2.1 Introduction of Platform 3

2.2 Project BIM VR Workflow 3

2.3 Virtual Coordination Capabilities 4

a) Instant Visualisation of BIM Model in Virtual Reality 4

b) Information retrieval within Digital Model 4

c) Stakeholder Collaboration 4

d) User Centric and Ease of Adoption 4

2.4 Virtual Collaborative Process Roadmap 5

2.5 Coordination Spatial Setups 7

a) Meeting Room Setup 7

b) Open Area Setup 7

c) On-Site Setup 7

2.6 Hardware Specifications 8

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1. Virtual Design Review

1.1 General Scope and Goals

Virtual Design Reviews are a crucial part of the shift towards a fully Integrated Digital Delivery (IDD) process
for the AEC industry. To fully harness the potential of Building Information Modeling (BIM), the traditional
design reviews are to be conducted in virtual reality, enabling consultants to literally step into their 3d Models,
and experience their buildings at a 1:1 scale. The perception of the building and its components from this
vantage point, as opposed to traditional 2d plans and sections, is to improve the understanding of issues and
challenges in the various phases of the design process.

1.2 Virtual Reality Technology

Virtual Reality (VR) serves as a new medium for collaboration between consultants during design reviews
throughout the various construction stages. The use of Virtual Design and Construction (VDC) will primarily be
adopted to address constructability issues within a project by spotting potential conflicts virtually, prior to
actual execution. The potential benefits would include reduced schedule variability, a smoother workflow and
increased productivity overall.

1.3 Collaborative Platform

Digital Construction and Digital Asset Delivery & Management are gaining importance as two major
components within this overall framework for Integrated Digital Delivery (IDD). To facilitate this shift, it will be
crucial to embrace cloud and digital technologies that can integrate stakeholders in the building life cycle
management of any given project. As such, collaborative digital platforms are being developed that can aid
building consultants in this new digital workflow.

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2. VRcollab LITE

2.1 Introduction of Platform

An example of a collaborative digital platform that is centred around VR technology and built specifically for
the AEC industry is VRcollab Lite. VRcollab LITE is a software that converts BIM (Building Information
Models) for use in Virtual Reality design reviews, building requirement approval and construction coordination.
It is compatible with industry standard BIM(Building Information Model) formats including: ArchiCAD, REVIT,
Rhino, Sketchup, Navisworks and Obj.

2.2 Project BIM VR Workflow

The “Merge” function allows multiple BIM that have been modeled on different software to be combined into
one model using VRcollab LITE, facilitating an easy workflow for consultants. In addition, Multi-User VR
functionality aids in the seamless communication between groups whether in one physical location or
remotely via the internet. This is further enhanced by Virtual Design and Construction (VDC) oriented software
features and automated document generation allowing professionals to be effective and efficient within the VR
environment.

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2.3 Virtual Coordination Capabilities

a) Instant Visualisation of BIM

Model in Virtual Reality

● 1:1 BIM Geometry and Material Accuracy

● 1:1 Scale, Depth and Perspective
● Render Modes for Multi-Discipline
Coordination

b) Information retrieval within

Digital Model

● Precise Measurements
● Retrieval of BIM Object Information
● Location and Sunlight Analysis

c) Stakeholder Collaboration

● Merge Different Proprietary Software

without Data Loss in Virtual Reality
● Interdisciplinary Views (MEP in
context of CS and Architecture)
● Annotation, Markups & Coordination
Report

d) User-Centric and Ease of

Adoption

● Cross Internet Multi-User Function

● Flexible Physical Setups
● Native Desktop and in-VR Features

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2.4 Virtual Collaborative Process Roadmap
The table below displays the different stages of the design process and how our software provides
functionality that will suit the differing needs of the consultants involved:
Building Information Model Level of Development
LOD 100 The building 3D model is developed to represent
Concept Design the information on a basic level. Thereby, only
conceptual model creation is possible in this
stage. Parameters like area, height, volume,
location and orientation are defined.
LOD 200 General model where elements are modeled with
Schematic approximate quantities, size, shape, location and
Design orientation. We can also attach non-geometric
information to the model elements
LOD 300 Accurate modeling and shop drawings where
Detailed Design elements are defined with specific assemblies,
precise quantity, size, shape, location and
orientation. Non-geometric information can be
attached to the model elements
LOD 350 It includes model detail and elements that
Construction represent how building elements should interface
Documentation with various systems and other building elements.
Includes graphics and written definitions
LOD 400 Model elements are modeled as specific
Fabrication and assemblies, with complete fabrication, assembly,
Assembly and detailing information in addition to precise
quantity, size, shape, location and
orientation.Non- geometric information to the
model elements can also be attached
LOD 500 Elements are modeled as constructed assemblies
As Built for Maintenance and operations. In addition to
actual and accurate in size, shape, location,
quantity, and orientation, non-geometric
information is attached to modeled elements
***It should be noted that the following scope should act as a guide only, and as such should not be taken to be a comprehensive list of all possible
use-cases.
***Further details regarding the hardware requirements for both desktop and laptop setups for VRcollab can be found in Section 2.6. Information
regarding the set-up of optimal BIM coordination spaces can be found in Section 2.5.
VRcollab Software Utility
-Allows users to understand the spatial
consequences of the overall massing of the
building within the context of its surroundings.
-Understand the main flows of people around and
within the building
-Test different design options
-Merging of working models from various
consultants including: architecture, structure,
MEP.
-Comparison of structural alternatives
-Identification of potential clashes
-Check whether design intentions have been
maintained
-Merging of detailed models from various
consultants including: architecture, structure,
MEP.
-Identification of clashes
-Identification of member sizing issues
-Take detailed measurements from the model
- Make textual annotations within the model
-Details regarding construction methodology can
be annotated within the model to draw attention
to specific issues or concerns.
-Production Planning
-Prefabricated elements can be viewed in detail.
-Desired information to be handed over to FM
(maintenance & repairs; space & occupancy
management.)
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2.5 Coordination Spatial Setups
Coordination Spaces have been categorized into 3 major groups, each with its own benefits when taking the
user’s objective and considerations into account.
Location:​Consultant’s Meeting Room, Client's Meeting Room
a) Meeting Complementary Facilities: Projector, Projector Screen
Room Setup Stakeholder Capacity: 2 - 10 pax
Benefit: ​Upgrading a basic meeting room into BIM VR coordination facility

Location:​Consultant’s Headquarters / Showroom

b) Open Area Complementary Facilities: 25 sqm. empty area, CAVE system
Setup Stakeholder Capacity: 2 - 20 pax
Benefit: ​Allows empty area to be turned into a organisational showcase facility

Location:​Site Office
c) On-Site Complementary Facilities: Stable Internet, Projector, Projector Screen
Setup Stakeholder Capacity: 2 - 10 pax
Benefit: ​Connect Onsite to HQ using VR collab Multi-user Internet Feature

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2.6 Hardware Specifications
VRcollab’s software works with industry standard hardware to provide Virtual Reality capabilities for user
Interaction and visualization throughout the entire duration of the contract. The hardware and software shall
have the following capabilities:

i. Full visualisation and appreciation of BIM deliverables

ii. High resolution and photorealistic rendering
iii. Operate up to LOD 500 models
iv. Virtual reality goggles and screen resolution of at least 2160x1200 pixels and refresh rate of at least
90Hz using OLED technology
v. Virtual Reality (VR) visualisation capabilities
vi. VR headset and controller to utilise low latency head tracking, point and move, haptic feedback,
and virtual object interaction technologies.

Virtual Reality Hardware Specifications

VRcollab is usable with most Virtual Reality Hardwares such as ​htc vive ce, htc vive pro, oculus rift, windows
mixed reality series​. All Virtual Reality Hardware are Commercial Off the Shelf (COTS).

VR Hardware sets HTC VIVE CE Windows Mixed Reality HTC VIVE Pro

Head Mounted
Display
(HMD)

ALL 3 HMDs have

wires connected to
computer.
Resolution: 2160 x 1200 (1080 Most Windows MR headsets Resolution: 2880 x 1600 (1400 x
(VIVE PRO has x 1200 per eye) resolution feature 1,440x1,440-resolution 1600 per eye, and 615 ppi)
Wireless adaptor as displays,
optional accessory)

Controllers

1 set consists of 2
controllers (1 for each
hand)

Sensors
NO EXTERNAL
1 Set consists of 2 SENSORS
Base Stations
Controllers may lose tracking
Each mounted to for a moment when HMD is not
basic screw in Tracking Volume: 3.5 x 3.5 directed at them ( For eg. Tracking Volume: 10 x 10 Meters
(Camera Tripod stand Meters Controllers placed behind the Compatible with: VIVE PRO
Compatible with: VIVE CE /
not included) back)
VIVE PRO

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Computer Hardware Key Specifications for Virtual Reality

a. CPU: i-9 (Processing Speed)

b. GPU: NVIDIA GTX 1080 (2080 is recommended if BIM Project Models are larger >1GB)

Desktop Setups ​are suited for fixed meeting room settings where movement of the machine is infrequent
(events). With the added benefit of being able to use a wireless adapter, where the VR Head Mounted Display
is not tethered to the computer via cables, with wireless connectivity of up to 6 Metres, allowing for a wider
range of movement.

Laptop Setups​ are mobile, and is perfect for use-cases that need to be quick to setup and used at different
locations frequently ( eg. client meeting rooms), do note that Laptops are currently not able to use with the
wireless adapter, so the VR Head Mounted Display will still be connected via a cable to the laptop.

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