Impact of fidelity in 3D space visualisation across the construction asset lifecycle

3D virtual building models are used to help clients reach decisions during concept & detailed design phases. However, previously published research provides evidence for discrepancies between human perception of virtual & physical spaces; thus perceiving each virtual dimension (height, width, depth) differently from its physical counterpart, with varying percentages. This can affect clients’ effective decision-making during coordination if 3D virtual representations are not perceived identical to their physical equivalent . This paper discusses the impact of these discrepancies beyond the design phases & into the whole lifecycle, construction & operations. Moreover descriptive & inferential statistical analysis provides evidence of relationships between the physical & virtual perception differences in dimension, discussing possible factors contributing to perception discrepancies affecting the individual viewer, in 2 main areas 1) 3D authoring software 2) psychophysical factors. Possible solutions are also proposed to accommodate for the discrepancy between physical & virtual spaces

Volume 5 • Issue 1 • January-March 2016