The relationship between VR/AR and BIM models within the construction industry: a critical review

Abstract

Modern architectonic designs are becoming increasingly more detailed to represent complex geometric configurations in every element of a building. However, using BIM platforms for the visualisation of complex models and projects is not the best way to transfer a real sense of physical objects. Therefore, it becomes important to explore new technologies to implement as visualisation techniques for BIM projects that would help reduce the gap between the digital world and the material world. Due to the rapid developments in Virtual Reality and Augmented Reality technology, different stakeholders within the construction industry require a state-of-theart overview of their implementation. This study aims to present the relationship between Virtual Reality and Augmented Reality with BIM construction projects. The study analysed 32 articles, collected through purposive and snowballing sampling. Qualitative analysis of the findings is provided, using an inductive approach to reach a conclusion. The study found that the implementation of Virtual Reality within the construction industry is mostly focused on the design phase of a project, as well as training and education of workers and professionals. On the same note, Augmented Reality is mostly used for training and educational purposes. The critical review of existing literature shows that the use of Virtual Reality and Augmented Reality as visualisation technologies within the Architecture, Engineering and Construction industry are still being researched and developed, so their potential has not yet been fully explored in all areas. The study contributes to knowledge by presenting an overview of the state-of-the-art application of visualisation technologies such as Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR) in BIM construction projects.