VR Lab

Project description

As part of the pilot project, a VR laboratory is to be set up for the basic module "Construction Management" and the specialization module "Steel Construction II" as well as for the specialization module "BIM" of the "Bachelor and Master Civil Engineering" courses. The multimedia technology to be acquired in the course of the project is to be used for two purposes:

Construction operations / BIM:

The aim of the innovative project here is to further explore and utilize the possibilities and advantages of BIM through the use of virtual reality (VR). Building Information Modeling is an advanced method for planning, executing and managing construction projects. By using digital models and data, BIM enables improved collaboration between the various stakeholders, more efficient process control and better decision-making. The integration of virtual reality into BIM opens up new dimensions by allowing students to immerse themselves in a more immersive environment and explore the virtual models in real time.

• The establishment of a virtual reality laboratory offers numerous advantages and opportunities for teaching:

• Exploration and development of innovative and practical construction teaching: A virtual reality lab makes it possible to implement the immense potential of VR from BIM practice into teaching. Furthermore, new technologies, applications and tools can be developed in collaboration with students to optimize planning and construction processes while improving quality and efficiency.

• Increased efficiency and error minimization: The use of VR from BIM practice enables improved collision checking, virtual tours and immersive simulations. This allows potential errors and problems to be identified and rectified at an early stage, leading to a significant increase in efficiency and cost savings.

• Innovation leadership: The establishment of a virtual reality laboratory in connection with BIM represents a unique selling point at the University of Siegen. We can act as a pioneer in the use of VR technology in construction planning and execution and thus differentiate ourselves from our competitors.

Steel construction II:

The VR Lab will be used in the Steel Construction II module to take the teaching of course content to a whole new level. For example, with the help of VR glasses, it will be possible to experience complex experimental tests (e.g. fatigue tests, static tests such as the lateral-torsional buckling of a steel beam or the recording of a metallographic examination using a scanning tunneling microscope) up close and make them tangible for the first time. This could take teaching to a whole new level.

Funding body: Commission for Quality Improvement in Studies and Teaching at the University of Siegen, funding line Besser innovativ!