BIM with VR for architectural simulations: Building Information Models in Virtual Reality as an architectural and urban designtool

This paper discusses the possibilities of architectural representation models in new media such as virtual reality, seen in the context of perception, and neurology. The discussion takes it starting point in the findings of a study of the similarities between the perception of architectural space experienced in physical space conditions and in virtual reality. The research intents to clarify to what extend subjective and objective attributes of architectural space can be conveyed through a direct use of BIM (Building Information Models) in Virtual Reality. Sixty test subjects experienced the same architectural space, as either a physical environment or a virtual environment, while data from their experiences was collected through a quantitative/qualitative questionnaire and through collecting the eye tracking data from their experience. This paper deals with an extended analysis of the eye tracking data from the research. Neurology studies indicate that virtual reality three-dimensional representation models are less demanding on the cognitive load of the brain than three- dimensional models seen on flat two-dimensional computer screens. This research suggests that the correct use of virtual reality architectural BIM models can meaningfully improve architectural representation.