ARBuilding

The integration of various modes of representation, such as augmented reality (AR), 360 virtual reality (VR), building information modelling (BIM) and plan drawings, is an innovative development in construction education. This approach in the form of a smartphone application (app) provides learners with a more comprehensive and holistic understanding of spatial design and construction by creating a hybrid contextual visualisation of a building at Bond University.

The app described takes advantage of these modes to enhance the user's learning experience. By using a real BIM model, learners can explore the intricate details of a building and understand how different layers of construction come together. The 360 imaging and plan drawings offer learners different perspectives of the building, enabling them to see the details in a more contextualised manner. The ability to switch seamlessly between these modes allows learners to compare and contrast different representations, enhancing their understanding of the spatial design.

Another innovative feature of the app is the ability to enable and disable layers of the building with adjustable transparency. This allows learners to see the inner workings of a building and how different systems, such as electrical, hydrodrolics, and structural, interact with each other. The freedom to roam through the building or use predefined waypoints provides learners with a more immersive learning experience, enabling them to explore the building at their own pace.

Overall, this app represents a significant advancement in construction education, providing learners with a more engaging and interactive learning experience that enhances their understanding of spatial design and construction.