HoloLens 2 and BIM models: The power of immersive visualization
The age of technology is rapidly changing the way we work and live. In the architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) sector in particular, the adoption of innovative technologies is transforming the way we design, construct, and operate buildings and infrastructure.
That’s where mixed reality (MR) comes in. Visualization in MR enables you to overcome the limitations of traditional 2D and 3D technologies, providing an immersive and interactive experience that allows you to visualize BIM models in a virtual environment.
La SIA S.p.A., each year, invests in research and development on new technologies and software, seeking to implement, to the company’s current workflow, one or more improvements to increase productivity and quality of work. Investing in R&D is not easy, and more importantly, so is finding solutions that work for a company like La SIA that involves more than 150 professionals in its processes and has 8 locations throughout Italy and one abroad. One of the most advanced devices for mixed reality is Microsoft’s HoloLens 2. This state-of-the-art device offers an unparalleled visualization experience in MR, enabling users to view BIM models in real time, interact with them, and make informed decisions.
But what does this mean for the AEC sector?
It means that engineers, architects, designers and builders can finally work together more effectively, visualizing BIM models immersively and collaborating in real time. This not only makes the design and construction process more efficient, but also helps to substantially reduce unnecessary costs. Indeed, HoloLens 2 offers a wide range of features, including the ability to annotate and report problems, display performance and safety information, and even create animated client presentations. In addition to this, it is also possible to start from a BIM model made with Autodesk Revit, for example, edit it to your liking within Unity, a very popular and powerful virtual reality and game development platform, and then pass it onto HoloLens 2 for immersive visualization.
Visualization in MR therefore also provides greater awareness of project quality because it allows both practitioners and clients to explore BIM models safely and virtually, before work actually begins.
HoloLens 2 and MR visualization of BIM models are really changing the way we work in the AEC industry as they represent a unique opportunity, improve collaboration and efficiency, and offer new possibilities for innovation and improvement. At La SIA we have been using this tool for more than a year now, and the result is that the combination of immersive reality and BIM models is proving successful.
We are convinced that the investment is worth every penny and that investing in innovative technologies is like buying a ticket to a journey to a more efficient and productive future.
As Steve Jobs said, “Technology is a simple thing, but it changes lives.”
