Virtual reality in construction industry: a requirement compatibility analysis approach

Virtual Reality (VR) is regarded as a high-end user-computer interface that involves real-time simulation and interactions through multiple sensorial channels. It is assumed that VR will reshape the interaction interfaces between user and computer technology by offering new approaches for the communication of information, the visualisation of processes and the creative expression of ideas. The VR application in construction has a relatively long history but its successful stories are not heard quite often. In this paper, the authors have explored how much further the construction industry could be supported by new three dimensional (3D) VR technologies in different construction processes. The design information in the construction industry has been discussed first followed by a detail construction process analysis. A questionnaire survey has been conducted and the results of the survey are presented and discussed. As an investigation into the application of 3D VR technologies in the context of the construction processes, the benefits and challenges of current and potential applications of 3DVR in the construction industry have been identified. This study also reveals the strengths and weaknesses of 3D VR technology applications in the construction processes. Suggestions and future works are also provided in this paper.