From real to virtual rapid architectural prototyping

Abstract

Can greater visual realism of a real-time architectural virtual walkthrough achieve similar high sensory impact, or qualia, as a fabricated 3D printed scale model of an urban landscape? The aim of this project is to answer that question by allowing a real existing city heritage landscape during a large urban planning project to be 3D modeled and subsequently be studied via a dual output: A fabricated real, physical scale model based on a latest high quality color 3D printer and an equivalent 3D virtual walkthrough of enhanced real-time visual realism based on a recent game engine. Conclusions of this experiment and user study suggest that a virtual, interactive simulation based on specific latest real-time rendering algorithms can indeed convey a similar user experience and feeling of presence that an equivalent architectural scale model offers, regarding fast appreciation of both space and structure. © 2012 Springer-Verlag Berlin Heidelberg.