Assessment of Data Conversion Processes for BIM-Based VR Application through Compatibility Test to Support Decision-Making for Practitioners

Although extensive research has been conducted on BIM-based VR applications, the current approach has often been limited to specific software, resulting in a lack of information on other BIM and VR software programs. Therefore, the objective of this study is to provide an assessment of the multiple data conversion processes between different BIM and VR software programs through a compatibility test. The compatibility test was conducted for two sample BIM models: Duplex Apartment and Office; and the retention rate of model objects from BIM to VR was measured. Results showed that SketchUp to Unity process using FBX file format produced the highest retention rate (i.e., 99.59% for Duplex and 100% for Office). This study helps to inform appropriate technical pathways to convert BIM data to VR and aid in the decision-making processes for practitioners in given conditions.