VR

Exploring the virtual world ~ VR and BIM: a winning combination

Since its inception in 1957, virtual reality (VR) has been used for a multitude of purposes, from computer gaming and music videos to training simulations and product prototyping. Manufacturing is the latest industry to take the plunge as it incorporates virtual worlds into building information modelling (BIM). Here, Glyn Shawcross,

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Latest Issue
Issue 323 : Dec 2024

VR

Finland’s Hospital Nova uses VR to involve staff in building design

Innovative processes have been used in the co-design of Finland’s new Hospital Nova, using BIM models and involving over 350 staff As the first completely new hospital to be built in the Central Finland Healthcare District since the 1970s, Hospital Nova aims to be the one of the most modern and efficient hospitals in Europe. With a planned opening in late 2020, the project is an entirely new building type and concept compared to traditional hospitals, with a target to cut traditional operating costs by 10%. Virtual visits Due to the ambitious nature of the project, the project team wanted to involve staff in the design of the hospital to ensure it would meet everyone’s needs. “Our objective was to engage hospital staff in the project before construction had even started, by allowing them to visit the building virtually,” explained Mikko Jylhä, Project Director, Hospital Nova,  Central Finland Healthcare District. “Right from the early stages we wanted to share the new designs, collaborate with the building’s future users and gather vital feedback for the design process.”  Streamlined BIM workflows Hospital Nova decided to use Tridify to convert their BIMs into virtual models, as it was quick and easy to update the models with ongoing changes. Tridify’s automated service processed the architect BIM files into 3D interactive models, saving the hospital a lot of time and effort. The VR solution involved building a hospital demonstration space next to the construction site, for both the staff and the public to visit. Facilities included a virtual space where staff could use VR goggles to explore the future hospital and an auditorium where others could follow the virtual experience on a large screen.  The response from staff was impressive, with over 350 registering to be involved in the design process with many using the virtual model. At the height of its use there were several visitor groups per day, including members of the public interested in seeing what the hospital would look like. In 2019 alone there were over 3,000 visitors to the showroom. Due to its ease of use, Nova’s own project team were able to operate the demonstration space without the help of any external specialists. They were also able to use the Tridify virtual model to create their own videos and images for use in other promotional and educational activities.  Design feedback Staff have been able to explore the future building using the virtual model and provide feedback in the early design stages. Various different clinical and operational teams were able to make plans for new facilities based on their virtual visits, the model helping people to understand the design and if space was adequate for the planned functions. “Many different staff groups were involved, ranging from clinical staff, consultants, doctors, nurses and laboratory staff,” explained Jylhä. “Gathering feedback from so many different groups who would be using the building was invaluable in helping shape its design. Changes were made to the architect plans based on feedback. The result being an improved hospital which avoids any expensive alterations once the hospital is complete.” With construction now in its final stages and a planned opening in late 2020, the virtual model is currently being used by staff to test the hospital signage and ensure the smooth flow of different users around the site. This will allow further cost savings to be made as any changes can easily be done in the design phase. Staff are also becoming familiar with the new premises even before entering the building. BIM to web publishing Hospital Nova is now starting to use Tridify to publish the 3D model to mobile devices via the web, to help communicate the design to additional stakeholders. The hospital is also planning on using the virtual model throughout the hospital’s lifecycle in facilities management. “Using virtual reality for hospital co-design on this scale is rare so we are proud to be at the forefront of such developments, seeing how it can help shape the hospital so it functions as efficiently as possible, for both staff and patients. An efficient design is critical as it helps guarantee the delivery of the best quality and economically efficient healthcare in years to come,” concluded Jylhä.

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Exploring the virtual world ~ VR and BIM: a winning combination

Since its inception in 1957, virtual reality (VR) has been used for a multitude of purposes, from computer gaming and music videos to training simulations and product prototyping. Manufacturing is the latest industry to take the plunge as it incorporates virtual worlds into building information modelling (BIM). Here, Glyn Shawcross, group design manager at engineering solutions provider Boulting Group, explains the practicalities and benefits of VR and BIM.   Building Information Modelling (BIM) is a collaborative way of working underpinned by digital technologies (3D modelling) which allows for more efficient methods of designing, delivering and maintaining physical built assets throughout their entire life cycle. In 2011, the Government Construction Strategy (GCS) outlined a new mandate, stating that all centrally procured Government projects would need to include BIM as part of the documentation process. Since the deadline of 2016, other sectors have adopted the same mandate as a way of changing behaviours in the industry.   Once the 3D model has been generated this can be exported and converted to VR friendly software. Boulting Group has been incorporating BIM into the design and build of its projects for a number of years. But what’s next? Contractors are now looking to take BIM one step further by incorporating VR into the modelling process, bringing with it a host of new possibilities.   The briefing stage While line drawings and 3D diagrams help the client to visualise the finished project, VR creates a truly immersive experience, allowing them to explore their new working environment before work even begins. By doing so, any necessary changes to design can be implemented much earlier, saving both time and money.   With high-precision infrared sensors that allow for enhanced tracking and rotation, VR can accurately replicate an entire building, providing both contractors and clients with a far greater perspective of the project than any computer screen or print-out.   Safer project delivery and completion The ability to create simulated site scenarios can improve project safety significantly. By virtually walking round a site before work commences contractors can see exactly how the various elements of the build connect, ensuring they do not create hazards, avoiding possible expensive mistakes.   Following the completion of a project, the VR environment still has its uses. By being incorporated into the client’s training programme, VR can allow employees to explore their new workplace and be trained on equipment and processes before starting work. This is another time and money saving exercise that ensures staff are ready to start work straight away.   Industry 4.0 has led the manufacturing sector to great strides forward as new technologies continue to create endless possibilities for the industry. As VR becomes more accessible, we’re positive we will see more projects adopt the technology. While BIM benefits greatly from its application, this is just the tip of the iceberg.

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