Redefining Noise and Vibration Management with BIM and VR Technologies
As cities grow denser and more interconnected, the demand for underground transportation systems like subways, expressways, and high-speed railways has surged. In bustling metropolises such as Seoul, extensive underground development projects, including the undergrounding of railways and expressways, are being aggressively pursued to enhance urban mobility and reduce surface congestion.
However, with these advancements come significant challenges. Deep excavation blasting—a cornerstone of underground construction—often raises concerns among local residents about noise, vibrations, and ground stability.
Incidents of noise complaints, such as the 170 cases recorded during the Busan Inner Loop urban expressway construction, underscore the urgency of addressing these issues effectively. Citizens frequently express unease about disturbances from excavation activities beneath their communities, where the impacts are intangible but deeply felt.
This growing public apprehension underscores the need for cutting-edge solutions to minimise environmental impact, bolster safety, and alleviate citizen concerns.
BIM and VR Integration
Enter the Korea Institute of Civil Engineering and Building Technology (KICT), which has unveiled a ground-breaking innovation: the nation’s first BIM (Building Information Modelling) and VR (Virtual Reality) based noise and vibration impact simulator. This sophisticated tool aims to redefine the way deep excavation projects are managed and communicated to the public.
By leveraging BIM technology, KICT’s simulator visualises the noise and vibration impacts of blasting in unprecedented detail. It provides actionable insights, such as the radius of impact, enabling project teams to plan and execute blasting activities with precision. Meanwhile, the integration of VR technology offers a more immersive approach. Stakeholders, including residents, can experience construction-related noise and vibrations firsthand, fostering better understanding and easing anxieties.
How the Simulator Works
KICT’s innovative system combines advanced sound wave-based vibration technology with a comprehensive database of measured and simulated impacts. This dual-layered approach ensures unparalleled accuracy, certified by the Telecommunications Technology Association (TTA), a national ICT testing body. Residents and project stakeholders can use the simulator to:
- Visualise the range and intensity of noise and vibrations.
- Experience site-specific scenarios in a controlled environment.
- Understand construction methodologies and their mitigative measures.
By offering a tangible experience of what to expect, the simulator transforms abstract concerns into comprehensible realities, ultimately strengthening trust between construction teams and the public.
Addressing Public Concerns: A Game Changer
One of the simulator’s standout features is its capacity to preemptively address citizen complaints. Dr. MyoungBae Seo, a leading researcher at KICT, highlights its significance: “The developed technology is a solution to preemptively address complaints that may arise during the construction of urban underground transportation infrastructure. It’s expected to play a pivotal role in ongoing and future projects, ensuring public safety and peace of mind.”
This proactive approach aligns with global trends in urban development. Internationally, similar efforts are being made to integrate advanced noise and vibration management tools into urban construction projects. Yet, KICT’s blend of BIM and VR remains a trailblazer in combining cutting-edge technology with practical applications.
From Research to Real-World Application
The development of this simulator was no small feat. It involved a collaboration of 18 institutions, including leading universities such as Konkuk and Hanyang, alongside industry giants like GS Engineering & Construction and Hyundai Engineering & Construction. The project was funded through Korea’s Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, and Transport, demonstrating the government’s commitment to enhancing urban infrastructure.
Dr. Changyong Kim, head of the research team, emphasises the simulator’s potential: “We will continue to expand the applicability of these outcomes to underground transportation infrastructure development projects, such as the recent underground expressway and railway undergrounding initiatives.”
To further this mission, KICT has already transferred two critical patents related to the simulator to private companies, accelerating its path to commercialisation. With these developments, the simulator is poised to become an indispensable tool in urban infrastructure projects, both in Korea and abroad.
Sustainability and Innovation
KICT’s efforts don’t stop here. The institute continues to explore ways to enhance construction safety and minimise environmental disruption. The simulator, with its emphasis on transparency and collaboration, is a testament to how technology can bridge the gap between infrastructure development and public satisfaction.
Moreover, its applications extend beyond underground blasting. By simulating various noise and vibration scenarios, the tool can be adapted for a wide range of construction projects, making it a versatile addition to the construction industry’s arsenal.
A New Benchmark for Urban Development
The development of BIM and VR-based noise and vibration impact simulators marks a watershed moment for urban construction. By combining precision planning with immersive public engagement, KICT is setting a new standard for how cities can grow sustainably and inclusively.
As global urbanisation accelerates, innovations like these will undoubtedly play a crucial role in shaping the cities of tomorrow.
