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How is BIM augmented reality used in construction?

The benefits of augmented reality have been demonstrated across a wide range of industries. The business spectrum is wide and varied, ranging from retail to health, and, recently, construction, or, more precisely, the architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) industry. It goes even further because once built, the construction does not stop there. There is maintenance to keep track of and augmented reality proves itself there to be an efficient tool.

PORR AG on the construction site using construction app GAMMA AR
GAMMA AR on the construction site with client PORR

What is augmented reality?

Using mobile devices and smart glasses, augmented reality is a technology that combines the physical world with computer-generated elements in order to create a seamless, immersive experience.

What are the applications of BIM augmented reality to construction projects?

The construction industry is one of the oldest and most important industries in the world. Known as very conservative, however, it has been shown and been studied that implementing digital technologies, such as augmented reality, proves that it increases the productivity and efficiency of projects. It is now a priority and necessity for companies to start working with augmented reality on construction sites. Below are the applications of augmented reality in construction:

Preview the building

The use of augmented reality enables the overlaying of elements of a 3D construction plan, more commonly referred to as a BIM model, on the construction site. The purpose of this is to enable the various stakeholders to better understand what will be built and where it will be located. Thus, to compare the physical site with the plan.

Track and document the progress

Using augmented reality is useful not only for overlaying the models on the construction site but also for tracking and documenting the progress of projects. In addition to facilitating progress tracking, the solution also makes it possible to create issues containing photos, comments, notes, recordings, etc. to document progress.

Facilitate communication and collaboration

A collaborative approach is facilitated by augmented reality since it facilitates communication between stakeholders. By viewing the different properties and issues associated with an object, each stakeholder can instantly understand them without having to be physically present on the construction site.

Improve safety

In some AR devices (such as glasses or mobile devices), tags or labels attached to particular areas or objects can be scanned. Furthermore, these labels can display additional information or even 3D models in order to communicate information related to safety or hazards.

How does BIM augmented reality work on the construction site?

  1. The BIM model is created and combines all the building data needed.
  2. The user, usually the construction workers and construction managers – project managers, will use a device (smartphone or tablet) to overlay this model into reality.
  3. The building data is displayed virtually over the user’s physical surroundings in real-time, and just in 3 clicks.

How is BIM augmented reality used in construction

During the design phase

The role of AR begins in the planning/design phase. Architects can show their models to their clients by combining augmented reality and BIM. The AR solution can be used to show a miniature of what the project will look like. It allows the designers and engineers to detect early clashes and make changes before the construction begins.

During the construction phase

One of the best uses of AR is its capacity in combining all digital information and documentation of a project with reality. The technology helps with visualizing in real-time from the architectural elements to MEP elements.

After the construction completion

It is important to maintain a good operation of the building after its completion. To do facility management, AR is useful to inform of potential problems by creating tasks and assigning them automatically to the right person.

Use BIM augmented reality to bring your 3D plans to the construction site

We have the solution for you, an intuitive application that easily brings your BIM models to the construction site thanks to augmented reality. Now that you have read all this page, it may be clearer for you the following: when and how to use augmented reality. Let’s discuss now a construction app that brings your 3D plans to the construction site.

GAMMA AR projects 3D (BIM) models onto the construction site, using augmented reality. The solution works for the three phases we discussed before.

PORR AG using construction app GAMMA AR on Wien Museum renovation project

During the design phase

Use GAMMA AR in miniature to show the entire project to your clients before the construction begins. It will allow clients to give their first opinions about it and make some changes before construction.

During the construction phase

Used during the entire construction phase, GAMMA AR aims to prevent errors and potential reworks, track progress, ameliorate the collaboration between the stakeholders, and in general improve the efficiency and profitability of projects.

After the construction completion

Even when your project is built, keep GAMMA AR to track and annotate any useful information for facility management.

GAMMA AR follows you from scratch until the demolition of the project. All you need is a 3D plan, more commonly referred to as the BIM model.

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