Platform Based Design and Immersive Technologies for Manufacturing and Assembly in Offsite Construction

Inhaltsverzeichnis

1. Frontmatter

2. Chapter 1. Exploring the Development of an Interactive Visualisation Tool for the UK's Timber Frame Self-build Housing Sectors

   Lilia Potseluyko, Farzad Pour Rahimian, Nashwan Dawood, Faris Elghaish

   Abstract

   Timber Frame Self-Build Housing Sector in the UK amounts to only 7–10% market share than other housing construction sectors in the country. It is common for people to build their own homes in other countries, with Austria's self-build share being 80, 50 and 60% in the US and Canada, respectively. Bespoke houses in chosen locations appeal to clients with an opportunity to save up to 30% on market value and equip the house with high energy efficiency and the latest home technologies. The UK government has recently introduced policies to encourage self-building. Nevertheless, while the problem awaits resolution on a macro-economic level, the kit home manufacturing companies—the core providers in the self-build sector, can significantly contribute to the popularisation of the self-build by innovating their workflow. For clients who make buying decisions to self-build and have little or no knowledge of the construction industry, the major challenges in communication with professionals are spatial awareness, visualising technical drawings and understanding construction process stages. Exploratory theoretical research was conducted in the latest BIM, Computer Science and Business and management scientific literature to establish KPIs for measuring successful interaction and collaboration in TFSBS. This chapter investigates the current state of TFSBS in the UK and the integration potentials with BIM.

3. Chapter 2. Current State of Self-build Housing Sector in the UK: A Critical Review

   Lilia Potseluyko, Farzad Pour Rahimian, Nashwan Dawood, Faris Elghaish

   Abstract

   This chapter examines the existing Self-Build Housing Sector in the UK and proposes solutions that utilise BIM, game theory, and immersive technologies to develop an interactive visualisation solution that integrates all of these technologies into one solution. The aim of this solution is to increase the market of TFSBS in the UK. The literature review shows that self-build and group self-build housing projects result in significantly better-quality housing, increased environmental efficiency, and value for money. However, self-building can be daunting and discouraging to purchasers. Additionally, the ZCH standard has been perceived as too complex for construction professionals, and even more so for self-builders. Self-building statistics in Scotland and England have confirmed that UK timber frame kit-home manufacturing companies require growth in BIM maturity levels and would benefit significantly from improved interoperability.

4. Chapter 3. Research Design and Methodology

   Lilia Potseluyko, Farzad Pour Rahimian, Nashwan Dawood, Faris Elghaish

   Abstract

   Virtual Reality technologies, frequently described as empathy machines, can successfully aid clients and professionals in a more productive interaction process. Gaming and simulation have already proven to be efficient in resolving problems in science and business. However, the next challenge is designing data-rich Virtual Environments that would enhance clients&; spatial understanding and simplify architect-client business/marketing communications, provide parametric customization options, consolidate quantification an export data directly to manufacturers software, minimising fragmentation across the entire BIM lifecycle. This chapter presents a comprehensive study to exploit innovative approaches and the capabilities of these technologies. The study is specifically adopted to implementing innovation to small and medium-size architectural and construction practices with a limited budget and time dedicated to visualization creation to increase sales of TFSBS in UK. Exploratory theoretical research was conducted in the latest BIM, Computer Science and Business and management scientific literature to establish KPIs for measuring successful interaction and collaboration in TFSBS. In addition, empirical evidence was collected to identify the optimal technology for achieving the study objectives. The iterative stages of the prototyping followed the agile software development methodology. The collected evidence proved that game-like interfaces combined with the power of BIM could provide simplified data delivery to a client, leading to customer satisfaction and increased sales due to confidence in the product. The designed workflow and templates were tested in the case study of a small self- build construction company.

5. Chapter 4. Application of Immersive Technologies in the Self-building Sector

   Lilia Potseluyko, Farzad Pour Rahimian, Nashwan Dawood, Faris Elghaish

   Abstract

   Research has shown that Virtual Reality (VR) technology can be beneficial in improving the interaction process between clients and professionals, as it is often referred to as an “empathy machine”. Game-like interfaces, combined with Building Information Modelling (BIM), have the potential to simplify data delivery to clients and increase customer satisfaction, leading to higher sales. The effectiveness of gaming and simulation in resolving problems in science and business has also been demonstrated in previous studies. When applied to sectors such as tourism and hospitality sales, the use of XR technologies such as VR has been found to increase clients’ confidence in their purchase, improve decision-making, and enhance product satisfaction. Additionally, studies on VR/AR shopping have indicated that clients using the technology are more likely to seek variety and be less sensitive to price.

6. Chapter 5. Prototype Development for Game-Like Interactive Environment

   Lilia Potseluyko, Farzad Pour Rahimian, Nashwan Dawood, Faris Elghaish

   Abstract

   Current platform solutions for using VR in housing marketing lack integration of BIM, resulting in a lack of data on construction materials, services, and costs for interaction. To address this functionality gap, this study proposes an interface that integrates BIM and immersive technologies, streamlining design processes and providing a comprehensive pared-down BIM system. The interface is designed to be fully agnostic towards various BIM editing tools, allowing for input from multiple sources and facilitating concurrent user accessibility with low latency to promote active collaboration. This chapter presents the development of a prototype that combines and fosters new technologies for the construction market. Firstly, advanced ICT is used to reach new markets. Secondly, XR technologies are utilized to offer more efficient services and add value to clients. Lastly, interoperability and standardization of product design and delivery processes are improved to decrease the length of the average project cycle and provide more competitive prices. As described in the methodology chapter, the prototyping stages were designed to follow the ASDM. Each prototyping stage was divided into three steps: (1) requirements, (2) design/develop, (3) test/deploy/review ⇒ new requirements.

7. Chapter 6. An Innovative BIM-Based Mixed Reality Approach for Game-Like Interactive Environments in Real-Life Industries: A Case Study of TFSBHS

   Lilia Potseluyko, Farzad Pour Rahimian, Nashwan Dawood, Faris Elghaish

   Abstract

   Norscot Joinery Ltd manufactures the widest range of building components available from a single source anywhere in Scotland, including timber frame kit homes; made-to-measure windows, doors, patios and conservatories. Established in 1984, the company has a long history of innovation comprising sophisticated computer-controlled machinery and optimising building materials to reduce waste. Norscot’s competitive advantages include well-acclaimed precision in design, construction to optimise value for money, individual approach to each client. Being an established leader in its geographical area (North of Scotland), the company is looking to expand into other UK products and regions, where there is a significant demand for excellent quality building materials and services. Norscot currently employs over 60 staff members and generates an annual turnover of approx. £5 million. Norscot is relentless in pursuing environmentally friendly and sustainable business practices and actively engages in several activities to support the local community. The company’s quality assurance scheme is accredited to the Internationally recognised ISO 9001: 2015 standard. In this chapter, we showcase the implementation of the created solution in chapters 3 and 4 to solve revealed issues by Norscot Joinery.

8. Chapter 7. Summary and Conclusion

   Lilia Potseluyko, Farzad Pour Rahimian, Nashwan Dawood, Faris Elghaish

   Abstract

   This chapter summarises the study findings for each objective in the Introduction chapter. The chapter includes four main sections, justification of the objectives: delivery, contributions to knowledge, implications on the practice, and recommendations for future work. The following points are covered in this book. This chapter summarises the study findings for each objective in the Introduction chapter. The chapter includes four main sections, justification of the objectives: delivery, contributions to knowledge, implications on the practice, and recommendations for future work. The following points are covered in this book.