Dreamscape Bricks VR: An Experimental Virtual Reality Tool for Architectural Design

Abstract

In this paper, we propose a VR design tool framework called DREAMSCAPE, which adopts a direct manipulation approach focusing on embody, experience, and manipulation activities in design. The framework defines a VR design process using intuitive controls without being limited by the preconceptions of conventional CAD systems. To establish and demonstrate the framework, we designed and developed a VR design tool called Dreamscape Bricks VR in Unreal Engine 4, using LEGO bricks as base components in a high-fidelity interactive design environment. We conducted user tests and administered questionnaires assessing usability, performance, and comfort. Results showed that the user experience of the tool is positive. The developed tool is expected to establish the abstract framework and provide insights into the future of VR design tools with implications on design education

UndoPort: Exploring the Influence of Undo-Actions for Locomotion in Virtual Reality on the Efficiency, Spatial Understanding and User Experience

“…In the picture of interaction in a VR world, not only the movement would be undone, but also the further actions in the world; in a way, it would be a rewinding of time. This rewinding of time has already been investigated for desktops [35,56] and, recently, for VR scenarios [21].…”

Trend and research of Lego and Minecraft as learning media to realize 4th SDGs

“…The literature review about Lego and Minecraft education is in Table 4. -Python and JavaScript [26] -3D printers [28] -Kodu [30] -AI and Metaverse [32] -AR [25] -Arduino and Microcontrollers [27] -Robot [29] -VR [31] -3D Printed [33] -Matlab [34] Skills Collaborative, problem-solving, and creative-critical thinking [30] Problem-solving, creative-critical thinking, collaboration, communication [35,36] How Many types of Lego (Table 5) are used in robotic education. Students learn to build the robots, use code, and use sensors to move them [63].…”

An investigation of architectural design process in physical medium and VR

“…Dreamscape Bricks VR is the first application of our DREAMSCAPE (a backronym of Digital Reality Environment As a Medium for Studio Collaboration in Architectural Production & Education) framework, which adopts direct manipulation as one of its key features. The framework of DREAMS-CAPE proposes a design process based on EEM (embody/experience/manipulate) design activity flow, performed iteratively in a spatial and temporal succession: (1) embodiment of conceptual design ideas, (2) experiencing preliminary design outputs, (3) manipulation of design outputs to generate new ideas (Doma & Şener, 2022). The pieces, the building process, and object interactions in Dreamscape Bricks VR are realistic simulations akin to designing and building a LEGO model in real life.…”