VR as a tool from concept to planning permission

Purpose: The purpose was to contribute to increased understanding on the use of VR, where integration is an essential and crucial part of whether it is an effective tool. The aim is to investigate VR as a tool between architect, client and engineer from sketch to planning permission, as well as to investigate applications from an engineering perspective. Method: Data has been collected through action research with the VR-hardware HTC Vive and interviews with architects, engineers and clients within the AEC-industry. A parallel literature study has been conducted. The three methods do thereafter make it possible to answer the questions and fulfill the goal. Findings: By communicating information through VR, a common ground is created, whereby different parties can work from. Coordination is facilitated when decisionmaking can be carried out on the same basis. The use of VR therefore promotes communication between involved parties. However, the tool is limited by its availability and due to the fact that it is new a technology which does not yet permit multiple users. I addition, the compatibility of the tool varies depending on the choice of plug-ins. IrisVR was noted to support all CAD programs, which means increased usability. Furthermore, the evaluated plug-ins have similar features. Implementation of VR can support building decisions by communicating how these affect other design aspects. As BIM is used to a greater extent, this imposes higher standards on the model. VR can thus serve as a tool for self-monitoring. Implications: The tool has been shown to provide increased understanding of volume, scale and concept, which can result in improved communication opportunities. Improved communication enables coordination between professional groups, which in turn provides better decision making. Despite advantages, there are limiting factors that cause VR not to be used to a greater extent. As a recommendation, VR should be integrated through appropriate evaluation of functions as well as a complement to today's tools. Limitations: This study was limited to the architecture office on which it was carried out and to selected hardware and software. The technology is developing at a high pace, which causes problems regarding the relevance of the results. Despite method triangulation, difficulties arise in maintaining objectivity when researchers are partly participating. Furthermore, the role of the client is less represented because of them not having as much experience in using VR. Keywords: Building Information Model (BIM), Computer Aided Design (CAD), Virtual Reality (VR), Information Communication Technology (ICT), Architecture, Engineering and Construction (AEC) Content is described in Swedish below