AEC TECH NEWS: Autodesk simplifies virtual reality for design professionals

In July, Autodesk introduced LIVE for Revit, a cloud-based service that transforms a Revit model into an interactive experience in just one click. In October, Autodesk announced its latest LIVE release, currently in beta, that, with a second click in the LIVE editor or LIVE viewer, toggles virtual reality (VR) viewing on and off. Requirements include a system that can support HTC Vive or Oculus Rift.

Two beta preview users offered the following feedback:

Andrew Malanoski of Eppstein Uhen Architects noted that he gave one of the firm’s owners “a quick explanation on how the controller works and a few seconds later he was zooming around the model, having picked up the controls almost instantly.” Before long, Malanoski said, the owner was “performing design critiques on the project (in real time).”

Taylor Cupp, technologist at Mortenson Construction, said that all of a sudden his clients were talking about “spatial relationships and function” and the team was identifying problems they would have missed without the VR capabilities in LIVE.

Current LIVE subscribers automatically have access to the new VR beta. For new users, LIVE remains available on a monthly subscription basis. Autodesk also extended a free trial period to 30 days.