Virtual Environment Systems

By definition, a Virtual Environment (VE) is ‘a computer-generated, three-dimensional representation of a setting in which the user of the technology perceives themselves to be and within which interaction takes place’. The computer generated digital environments can provide a ‘Virtual Reality (VR)’ for users to experience and experiment on, often assisted with special electronic equipment, such as a helmet with a screen inside or gloves fitted with sensors. Virtual environment systems can be categorised based on their immersiveness, size, users’ interaction and so on, and the applications of this modern technology are very diverse, from Astronautics, landscaping, architecture, marine science, bioscience, nanotechnology, to name a few. Virtual Environment systems have been used widely in the past few decades, including gaming, clinical, space programmes, mining, etc. AEC (architecture, engineering and construction) industry has been extensively using these technologies in the last two decades and continuously leading the way, it is therefore important to understand their capability and limitations in practices. Assuming you are a professional working in the building industry and you have been approached by a journal editor who invites you to write an article on the benefits of Virtual Environment technologies to support the various stages of a construction project’s life cycle, i.e. planning, design, evaluation and construction. In doing so, you are requested to identify two or three different systems and discuss their usage and added value to the building industry. Please discuss those systems which are relevant to AEC industry rather than some other specific VE/VR systems, i.e. gaming engines. In your article, you should cover the following: • Summarize the VE systems to highlight their applications, main components and user’s interaction. • Compare the systems’ characteristics such as their resolution, immersive nature, FOV (Field of View), viewing devices, multi-user interaction, prices and so on. • Discuss the benefits of using these systems during the various stages of design, construction and maintenance (i.e. facility management) of buildings. You are also encouraged to make some comments on the likely future uses of VE in construction. ***Supporting tables, graphs and figures are essential.