6 Useful Applications for Augmented Reality in Construction
Date Posted: April 27, 2022
Posted In: Ideas, News, Workforce,
From BigRentz: The construction job site is changing. Paper drawings, sketches and design plans are giving way to drones, 3D models and a new interactive experience called augmented reality.
Augmented reality, or AR for short, is one of the most talked-about technology trends in construction. Using advanced camera and sensor technology, AR combines one’s physical surroundings with computer-generated information and presents it in real time. While video games have used the technology for years, this “augmented” experience is recently making waves in construction, offering immense opportunities to improve the project life cycle.
By combining digital and physical views, augmented reality helps construction teams drive more efficiency, accuracy and overall confidence in their projects. The AR global market is expected to reach $300 billion by 2024. Rather than replacing workers on the field, AR will greatly enhance the ways humans and digital machines work together.
As the technology continues to mature and become adopted, augmented reality in construction will become an invaluable tool — and even has the potential to change the future of building. Read on to learn about the different ways AR will benefit the industry in 2022 and onward.
How Does Augmented Reality Work?
Whereas virtual reality is strictly a digital experience, augmented reality combines the physical and digital world into one immersive environment. AR projects 3D images on a person’s physical surroundings as they walk through with a mobile device or special helmet.
Using GPS and cameras, AR can present real-time data geospatially, updating and displaying the necessary information as the user moves throughout a building space. Information such as schedules, operational details, and structural plans are easily accessible, allowing users to automate the construction process and make decisions on-site.