Construction is a heavily digitalised industry. It’s used to working with electronic documents, layouts, and software programs for estimating costs and designing plans. But it’s about to get even more digital. AR (https://nsflow.com/industries/augmented-reality-in-construction-industry) has already been integrated into some aspects of construction planning like site layouts and modelling building systems. But the construction industry as a whole is just starting to understand how AR can be used in the field to create positive change and save time. Here’s everything you need to know about augmented reality in construction:
How does augmented reality work?
AR is a process where computer-generated imagery, sounds, and data are mixed to create a realistic experience. This is done through devices that are usually paired with a smartphone or tablet. These devices include smartglasses such as the Microsoft HoloLens, smartwatches, and more. When a user looks at one of these devices, they are able to see the AR interface they have created themselves. This can be a digital model of a building or environment, or a tool that shows the user the construction process from start to finish. Augmented reality can be used across a variety of industries and fields, from automotive to healthcare.
AR in the field
AR has been used for field designs before, but now the technology has improved, it’s becoming a common way to work. AR field designs make it much easier to plan sites and find the best options for your project. AR can show what the site will look like, including how the surrounding area will change if you put a building there. The technology allows you to see what the finished product will look like and even walk around it. This can be used in a number of ways. It can be used to design a new building, but it can also be used to redesign an existing structure. Existing buildings can be viewed in AR and the design can be made to look exactly like you imagined.
AR for training and documentation
Construction teams have begun to incorporate AR into their training programs. This can be used to create training scenarios that help trainees learn new skills. In the field, AR can be used to teach employees to use new tools and technologies. That way, they can learn new ways of working together and avoid mistakes that come with old-fashioned training. Documentation can be made more effective with AR. Data can be overlaid on the real-world view that’s been paired with the AR device. This can be helpful for providing technicians who need detailed instructions on how to perform certain tasks.
Mixed reality and virtual reality
To put things into perspective, you can use AR to create models of a building, while VR is used to create a feeling of being inside the building. In the construction industry, the use of mixed reality is still in its early stages. Some companies are taking advantage of this concept by creating interactive online training programs that are paired with a specific AR device. VR is still growing quickly in the construction industry. We’re just starting to see it used for documentation and training, but it’s likely to change how we work as a whole. VR allows a user to see what a piece of construction will look like from any angle. It’s useful for creating a model that can be used to train employees or spot-check a project before it’s finished. VR can also be used to create a realistic model of the environment that can be used for site planning. It can also be used for assessing the impact of construction on the environment.
The future of augmented reality in construction
AR is still finding its feet in the construction industry, but it’s likely to make a big impact. The growth of AR will be driven by the availability of affordable smartglasses, which should be available in the next few years. It’s likely that some construction equipment manufacturers will begin to create smartglasses that allow users to see the construction site, models, and instructions. This will make it much easier to plan a project. It will also make it easier to find materials, navigate construction zones, and find the best way to do a job.
Summary
Augmented reality has just begun to be explored in the construction industry. However, it holds great potential as an innovative method of planning, managing, and conducting projects. The technology can be used in multiple ways, from creating site layouts to training and documenting work. In the future, it will likely become even more common thanks to the availability of affordable smart glasses. Construction is a highly digitalised industry. It’s used to working with electronic documents, layouts, and software programs for estimating costs and designing plans. But it’s about to get even more digital. AR has already been integrated into some aspects of construction planning like site layouts and modelling building systems. But the construction industry as a whole is just starting to understand how AR can be used in the field to create positive change and save time.
