Keywords: education, virtual reality, visual simulation, construction processes.

Normally, three-dimensional geometric models, which are used to present architectural and engineering works, show only their final form, not allowing the observation of their physical evolution. In the present study, two engineering construction models were created, from which it was possible to obtain three-dimensional models corresponding to different states of their form, simulating distinct stages in their construction. The use of techniques of virtual reality in the development of these educational applications brings new perspectives to the teaching of subjects in the area of civil engineering [1].

The visual simulation of the construction process needs to be able to produce changes to the geometry of the project dynamically. It is then important to extend the usefulness of design information to the construction planning and construction phases. The integration of geometrical representations of the building together with scheduling data is the basis of 4D (3D + time) models in construction domain. 4D models combine 3D models with the project timeline [2].

In order to create models, which could visually simulate the construction process, the authors turned to techniques of geometric modelling and virtual reality (VR). The applications developed for this purpose refer to the construction of a masonry cavity wall and a bridge. These models make it possible to show the physical evolution of the work, the monitoring of the planned construction sequence, and the visualization of details of the form of every component of each construction. They also assist the study of the type and method of operation of the equipment necessary for these construction procedures. The virtual model can be manipulated interactively allowing the user to monitor the physical evolution of the work and the construction activities inherent in its progression.

One of the applications developed corresponds to the model of a masonry cavity wall, one of the basic components of a standard construction. To enable the visual simulation of the construction of the wall, the geometric model generated is composed of a set of elements, each representing one component of the construction. The model of the masonry cavity wall, including the structural elements (foundations, columns and beams), the vertical filler panels and two bay elements (door and window), was created using a three dimensional graphic modelling system in widespread use in planning offices, namely, AutoCAD. Because this is an educational model, the steel reinforcement was also defined. Using a system of virtual reality technologies (EON Studio [3]), specific properties appropriate to the virtual environment are applied to the model of the wall. In this system, the visual simulation of the building process of the wall, following a particular plan, was programmed. For this effect, 23 phases of construction were considered. Through direct interaction with the model, it is possible both to monitor the progress of the construction process of the wall and to access information relating to each element, namely, its composition and the phase of execution or assembly of the actual work, and compare it with the planned schedule.

The second model created allows the visual simulation of the construction of a bridge using the cantilever method. The geometric model of the bridge deck was created through a bridge deck modelling system [4]. The EON Studio was used to program the visual simulation of the bridge construction activities. Students are able to interact with the model dictating the rhythm of the process, which allows them to observe details of the advanced equipment and of the elements of the bridge. The sequence is defined according to the norms of planning in this type of work. The aim of the practical application of the virtual model of bridge construction is to provide support in those disciplines relating to bridges and construction process both in classroom-based education and in distance learning based on e-learning technology.

These models are used in disciplines involving construction in courses in Civil Engineering and Architecture administered by the Higher Technical Institute of the University of Lisbon. They can be used in classroom-based education and in distance learning supported by e-learning technology.

1

A.Z. Sampaio, P.G. Henriques, P.S. Ferreira, "A virtual environment tool applied to visualize construction processes", in Proceeding of TP.CG.04 - Theory and Practice of Computer Graphics 2004 Conference, Bournemouth (U.K.), June 8-10, 2004, pp. 78-85.

2

J. Leinonen, K. Kähkönen, A. Retik, "New construction management practice based on the virtual reality technology", in book "4D CAD and Visualization in Construction: Developments and Applications", editors Raja R.A. Issa, Ian Flood William J. O'Brien. Ed. A.A. Balkema Publishers, 2003, pp. 75-100.

3

"Introduction to working in EON Studio", EON Reality, Inc. 2003.

4

A.Z. Sampaio, "Definition of a bridge deck geometrical modelling process to automate design graphical representations", in Proceeding of IKM 16th International Conference on the Applications of Computer Science and Mathematics in Architecture and Civil Engineering, Weimar (Germany), June 10-12, 2003 abstract pp. 62 - CDROM 6 pgs.

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