One of the features of the integration is that it allows users to create annotations in the BIM model just by talking out loud. (Image courtesy of Autodesk.)
Autodesk has announced an integration between InsiteVR and Autodesk BIM 360: the first commercially available solution on Autodesk’s construction platform that lets users perform multi-user meetings inside of VR. The tech allows users to join from headsets or desktops and make changes to the model from inside the VR environment.
The business of translating BIM into VR has been a complex one: BIM files are too large to easily absorb into the immersive environment necessary for VR. Initially, engineers and architects who wanted to see their models in VR had to translate their files into FBX before passing them on to Unreal or Unity, meaning that the raw BIM data was lost. Over time, the process was improved, but translation has still historically been necessary.
“When you go to interpret some of the challenges designing a building entails, sometimes having the first person perspective can give you the clarity you need,” said Andy Leek, vice president of Technology & Innovation at general contractor PARIC Corporation.
He added that the industry has been slow to adopt VR because it’s too clumsy to use in meetings.
“When you’re using VR, it dominates the conversation, as opposed to being part of the conversation at hand,” Leek said.
Autodesk’s new integration with InSite is an attempt to solve…