Augmented reality is a digital application that superimposes virtual objects onto the user’s field of vision. AR has been embraced by engineers, architects, and design professionals who want to integrate 3D models into their designs and presentations. With AR in construction (https://nsflow.com/industries/augmented-reality-in-construction-industry), engineers want to leverage virtual blueprints to aid them in conceptualizing building layouts before they begin physical construction. These examples show how construction companies are applying augmented reality to speed up project documentation, reduce costs, and make life easier for designers & contractors alike. Let’s take a look at some of the ways AR is being used in construction…

ARKit and ARCore

Apple’s ARKit and ARCore are two augmented reality frameworks that allow iOS devices to run AR apps. Developers can use these frameworks to create apps for the iOS operating system that enable users to view 3D models on their device’s screen. These frameworks enable developers to create AR apps for the iPhone, iPad, and the Apple Watch. Once a user downloads an AR app, they can view 3D models right on the device’s screen. Developers can also use these frameworks to create AR apps for macOS and Android devices. These frameworks have empowered engineers to use AR to improve the design process and streamline project documentation. For example, architects can place virtual blueprints on a wall and see the layout of the building right before their eyes. This can be especially helpful for architects who work in remote locations and have to create drawings based on verbal descriptions. Engineers can also use AR to visualize equipment and structures they are designing. While different industries will use AR in different ways, some common uses are visualization of pipelines and construction sites, visualization of equipment and structures, and visualization of 3D CAD models.

AR in the field

With the success of Pokemon Go, it wasn’t surprising to learn that many construction companies are using AR for field documentation and inspection. Since construction machinery and equipment can be dangerous to operate, it’s crucial to understand their layout and safety features. With AR, an engineer can quickly learn more about equipment and its features without risking their own safety. For example, an AR app can overlay schematics and diagrams over the real-world camera feed to create a 3D model of structures and equipment. Engineers and inspectors can use AR to quickly learn more about the layout of structures and equipment, including information that is otherwise difficult to see, such as height, weight, and distance to adjacent structures. With real-time, 3D models, inspectors can avoid mistakes and save time.

Augmented Reality in Construction Documentation

With the rise in popularity of AR, engineers have begun using it to help designers visualize and document construction projects. For example, a construction company could place a 3D model of a building on a wall and overlay it with a drawing of the building’s layout. This could help a designer visualizing a large project by reducing the project to a smaller scale and simplifying the drawings. AR could also be used to assist in documentation by making it easier for engineers to annotate and annotate drawings. AR could be used to mark the location of fixtures such as electrical boxes, piping, or conduit. This could make it easier for engineers to annotate and annotate drawings.

CAD with AR

With the growing interest in the use of AR for the design and construction industries, more and more software vendors are providing support for the technology. Among these, CAD vendors are leading the way. With the launch of Autodesk’s 3D Builder, the company has introduced a new way to work with AR. With 3D Builder, engineers can now place 3D models of models on walls, floors, or any other flat surface. They can then create a virtual model of the real-world model. 3D Builder supports many CAD formats, including Autodesk, Architecture, Revit, and Sketchup. Engineers can also use the new tool to create 3D models and store them in the cloud. They can then bring the models into their own CAD systems, architectural design tools, and even other app stores. With all these features, engineers now have a single app that can replace all their other CAD apps.

Cost savings through augmented reality

An area where the cost savings from the use of AR can be huge is construction inspections. With the use of an AR headset, an engineer can see a real-time image of a piece of equipment. This can help engineers spot problems and prevent accidents. By reviewing an AR image of a machine, engineers can spot issues, such as worn-out components or hazardous parts, that were not visible in real life. This can also reduce costs associated with physical inspections by providing an early warning of potential problems and speeding up the inspection process.

Conclusion

With the rise of smart cities and the increased focus on sustainability, engineers are looking for new ways to reduce construction costs and increase project efficiency. Augmented reality technology is a great way to streamline project documentation and visualize building layouts for design and construction projects.