Recent advances in computer workstation performance and the increasing functionality of computer-aided design (CAD) software make it possible for today's engineers and constructors to interact with and animate complex three-dimensional computer models in real time. This makes the computer model not only a tool to be used in the design process but also a planning device that can be used during the construction of facilities. Major construction tasks can now be simulated routinely with realtime computer animation, allowing construction plans to be developed and verified so that the problems areas can be identified and corrected before the actual task is undertaken. In this paper, a description of Bechtel's realtime animation system, walkthrough, will be presented, and methods for application of the model to the construction process will be given.
Abstract