Comparing three XR technologies in reviewing performance‐based building design: A pilot study of façade fenestrations

Abstract

AbstractExtended reality (XR), including augmented reality (AR), mixed reality (MR), and virtual reality (VR), can make complex information more intuitively understandable. However, it still needs to be determined which XR technology is the most suitable for reviewing performance‐based building design, during which architects check whether design strategies increase energy efficiency, indoor environment quality and so forth. It requires comprehensive design and simulation information to be vividly represented. The authors develop three XR apps (AR, MR, and VR) to interactively visualize façade fenestration geometries and indoor illuminance simulations. Then XR technologies are assessed by 120 students and young architects, from task performance and engagement level two aspects. The task performance is measured by correct rate and time consumption two indicators, while the engagement level is measured by usability and interest two indicators. Evaluation results show that compared to AR and VR, MR is the best XR technology for this aim. VR outperforms AR on three indicators except for usability. By exposing three different XR technologies' performances in aiding fenestration design, this study increases the practical value of applying XR to the building design field.