Virtual Reality Supported Site Layout Planning for Modular Integrated Construction of High-rise Buildings

Abstract

Site layout planning (SLP) is a classical assignment problem in determining the location of temporary facilities and site logistics. However, current research on SLP could not well fit in high-rise buildings using modular integrated construction (MiC) that is a game-changing construction practice transforming fragmented site activities into integrated module-driven construction. Therefore, this paper aims to develop an innovative SLP tool for high-rise modular buildings using virtual reality (VR) technology. First, a comprehensive literature review is conducted to identify the differences between conventional construction and MiC practices in terms of on-site activities, and analyze the previous methods on SLP and the features of VR technology. Second, the system architecture and functions of the VR-supported tool for SLP are designed. Third, the tool is developed with Unity3D and demonstrated using a real-life MiC project in Hong Kong. The demonstration reveals that the developed tool could help optimize the construction layout and module installation sequence through the provided functions of location tracking, overlapping area analysis, collision detection, simulation of different module installation scenarios, and lifting cost calculation. It proves that SLP assisted with VR technology can help construction planners identify the optimized facility locations to further secure the construction safety and increase the efficiency of module installation.