The use of the Igloo by Wessex Water and AECOM contributed to:
More than 100 structure clashes eliminated during the design process
Potential savings of £300,000 by using the visualisation to rationalise layouts in the treatment centre
AECOM saw the potential for an immersive, collaborative environment. So, as part of the proposal to Wessex Water, it suggested the use of an Igloo Shared VR system, and a 6-metre cylinder was purchased.
The 3D BIM model created by AECOM contains data from ground-penetrating radar, drone surveys, and laser scans. Teams of up to 12 people can stand within the Igloo and walk around the virtual model. And AECOM has reported that design reviews carried out from within the Igloo have helped with design coordination, stakeholder buy-in and plant operability reviews.
To make changes, laptops installed with Autodesk Revit and AutoCAD Plant 3D software would update the BIM models. Changes were pushed via the cloud to Revizto visual collaboration software. This could then be synced to the local Igloo server for viewing in a complete 360° immersive environment.
To navigate the VR environment, team members could use a simple Xbox controller. The VR model also enabled the production of off-site components by providing information for equipment suppliers. 3D supplier fabrication details were inputted into the model. This would ensure the integration of the components into the site construction when delivered ready-made.
The Igloo boosted levels of engagement among team members and stakeholders, with audiences less distracted when inside the cylinder.
“The problem that we have is that sometimes operations don’t fully understand our 2D drawings - with a 3D model they can look around as if they’re there, check they’re happy with what they’ve got, so they can sign it off before they get to the site.”
James Leverton
Digital Solutions Lead, AECOM
“We can all come into the Igloo space, and also join by Revizto’s camera share, and have an informed review session and ensure that the decisions that are being made are the right ones by the right people, and Igloo allows you to do that.”
Rhys Lewis
Business Development Director, Revizto
“We are seeing a number of benefits such as improved engagement and project buy-in for our operations colleagues, and more efficient, effective design reviews with significant time and cost savings.”
Simon Osborne
Delivery Manager, Wessex Water
