Virtual and augmented reality for structures (VARS)

VARS is a mobile application using virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) for users to identify different structural elements and their components in a real-life setting, to explain the difference between the different load types, to comprehend load transfer pathways in structural systems, to visualise deformation and failure modes of structural elements and systems under different loading conditions, and to identify the different materials used in different structures.

This study is funded by National University of Singapore (NUS) Learning Innovative Fund – Technology (LIF-T) grant. The contributions of Mr John Yap, Mr Mak Hon Keat, Mr Gan Ju-we, and Mr Chuah Teong Leong are greatly appreciated.

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Virtual Reality

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Augmented Reality

Our learning outcomes

Identify different structural elements and their components in a real-life settings

Explain the difference between the different load types

Comprehend load transfer pathways in structural system

Visualise deformation and failure modes of structural elements and systems under different loading conditions

Identify the different materials used in different structures

Our approach

Overview of VARS

Designed for non-engineers

Tailored for students in non-engineering disciplines who need to understand structural basics to collaborate effectively in construction projects

Authentic and contextual

VARS aligns with authentic learning principles by situating virtual objects within real campus environments, improving engagement and real-world relevance

Self-directed and intuitive

With in-app exercises, visual cues, and step-by-step guides, VARS enables flexible, independent learning—ideal for hybrid or remote education settings

By blending physical and digital environments, VARS makes engineering principles easier to grasp, especially for students without a physics or engineering background. Whether it is observing how a column buckles under load or analysing bending moments in beams, users engage with structural behaviour in a way that is both intuitive and grounded in real-world settings.

SDE4

VR360

Our customised adjustable lens Google cardboard headset
Our customised adjustable lens Google cardboard headset

To support structural education during the COVID-19 pandemic, we developed a VR360 experience of the SDE4 building to visualise structural load paths and highlight the materials used in key structural elements. This immersive tool was particularly valuable at a time when students were unable to visit the building in person due to physical distancing restrictions.

Unlike conventional lectures, which often struggle to convey the invisible flow of forces within a structure, the VR360 experience enables learners to see and understand how loads are transferred across different structural components in a real-world context.

Learners can visualise the load paths
Learners can visualise the load paths
Use the map to teleport to different levels
Use the map to teleport to different levels
Check out the different materials used
Check out the different materials used
SDE4

Augmented Reality

One of the in-app quizzes to test learners on the concept
One of the in-app quizzes to test learners on the concept

To complement physical site-based learning, we developed an AR component that enables students to visualise structural elements, such as beams, columns, and load paths directly within their real-world surroundings. Using their own mobile devices, students can superimpose 3D structural models onto actual buildings, allowing them to explore how different components behave under various load conditions.

This AR experience offers a unique advantage over conventional teaching methods, which often rely on abstract diagrams or static images. By bringing structural concepts to life in context, the AR tool enhances spatial understanding, encourages interactive exploration, and deepens learners’ appreciation of how structural systems work in practice.

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Publications

Using virtual reality (VR) to improve structural systems knowledge of project and facilities management students

Hu, X., Safiena, S., Goh, Y. M., & Lin, A. (2023). 

Educational impact of an Augmented Reality (AR) application for teaching structural systems to non-engineering students.

Hu, X., Goh, Y. M., & Lin, A. (2021). 

Check out our other research areas and current projects!