Virtual reality and 4D simulation: making construction sites more predictable

In the construction industry, teams from a wide range of disciplines must collaborate on complex projects. Unlike the aerospace or automotive sectors, where prototypes make it possible to correct errors before production, problems in construction are often discovered directly on the job site. These unforeseen issues frequently lead to delays, cost overruns, and last-minute adjustments.

To address this challenge, Conrad Boton, a professor in the Department of Construction Engineering at the École de technologie supérieure, is exploring the use of digital models, 4D simulation, and virtual reality to improve constructability analysis before work even begins. The goal is to make these tools more accessible and intuitive for all parties involved.

The research team developed a method to efficiently transfer 4D models into immersive VR environments, where potential errors or conflicts can be identified. Real-world scenarios were then tested to assess the ability of users to collaborate remotely or in person. The results demonstrate that these environments facilitate understanding of construction phases, improve coordination among stakeholders, and enable the detection of problems before construction begins.

By demonstrating the technical feasibility and practicality of 4D simulation in virtual reality, this research paves the way for new collaborative tools capable of transforming the planning of complex projects and improving productivity in the construction sector. This project also helped train highly qualified personnel, who were subsequently recruited by the industry. The impact of this research extends far beyond the construction sector. The immersive system developed at the LaRTIC laboratory is now used in several research projects, including work focused on supporting children with autism.

Références

Boton, C. (2018). Supporting constructability analysis meetings with immersive virtual reality-based collaborative BIM 4D simulation. Automation in Construction, 96, 1-15. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.autcon.2018.08.020

Gu, C., Dou, Y., Liu, W., et O’Neill, M. (2022). Security vulnerabilities and countermeasures for approximate circuits. Dans W. Liu et F. Lombardi (Éds.), Approximate computing, Springer International Publishing, 269-286. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-030-98347-5_11