Construction is changing. Drones, 3D models, and paper drawings replace pencil sketches, plans, and paper drawings.
Augmented reality (or AR) is one of the most popular technology trends in construction. AR is a combination of one’s surroundings and computer-generated information. It uses an advanced camera and sensor technology. This “augmented” experience, which has been used in video games for many years, is now making waves in construction. It offers tremendous opportunities to increase the project’s lifecycle.
Augmented reality combines digital and physical views to help construction teams increase their projects’ efficiency, accuracy, and confidence. AR is expected to grow to $300 Billion by 2024. AR will not replace workers in the field. Instead, it will enhance the way humans and digital machines interact.
Augmented reality in construction will continue to evolve and be adopted as the technology matures. It could even change the future of the building industry. Continue reading to discover the many ways AR will be beneficial for the industry in 2022.
Augmented Reality: How does it work?
Virtual reality is purely a digital experience. Augmented reality blends the digital and physical worlds into one immersive environment. AR projects 3D images of a person’s surroundings as they walk by using a special helmet or mobile device.
AR uses GPS and cameras to present real-time geospatial data. This information can be updated and displayed as the user moves through a building space. It is possible to automate the construction and make decisions on the spot by easily accessing information such as operational details and plans.
What is AR used in construction?
Augmented reality allows for real-time information and is used in the construction industry to improve efficiency, safety, and collaboration, reduce costs, increase project confidence, and manage costs. These are just a few ways construction teams use AR to simplify the building process.
Project Planning
Augmented reality allows you to create 3D models from a 2D plan. Construction companies can create interactive, detailed models of building projects using 3D modeling software and building information modeling (BIM) and present them to clients at the beginning of a project. Clients can see the project’s outcome and make changes before construction starts. This level of client involvement is important to avoid costly changes later on and keeps clients involved.
Construction projects require accuracy. AR allows teams to walk the entire project before execution, inspecting all components and details. This can help avoid delays and cost overruns and identify potential mistakes before they occur.
Automated Measurements
Augmented reality gear measures the physical properties of space, including its height, width, and depth. Construction companies can use this data to create models that allow them to produce more precise structures and give a complete view of the final project. It is easier to calculate accurate labor and material estimates and plan a project schedule.
Augmented reality will also be used to enable field workers to take measurements on-site during construction. Workers will be able to tap an AR unit to take measurements of the components and compare them to the dimensions specified in the building models. This allows workers to quickly identify inconsistencies and adjust them in a quick manner to avoid higher costs or delays later.
Modifications to Projects
Augmented reality allows users to modify building models on the field. This is a major breakthrough in augmented reality. Workers can view the interior and exterior views of the structure using a headset or mobile phone. They can also make changes to the virtual plans without losing the original view. Engineers will soon be able, with just a few taps of their AR-enabled devices, to virtual remove and relocate structural elements and alter a building’s layout.
Engineers will find this application particularly helpful as it allows them to troubleshoot errors in a virtual model before making changes to the physical structure. This digital data is constantly updated so it eliminates any guesswork in project changes and improves workflow.
Information on-site for Projects
On-site workers will be able to integrate all digital information and documentation with their physical view. Field workers can view information such as the location of pipes, outlets, switches, ventilation, and toggle between layers. This allows them to monitor a project against its blueprint and ensure a successful project closing. A contractor might use a tablet or headset to view the location of every drill hole in the building plans. This will ensure that the holes are properly placed.