Augmented Reality to Enable Users to Identify Deviations for Model Reconciliation

Abstract

Effective use of Building Information Modeling (BIM) during operation typically requires modeled content to accurately match the built spaces, which necessitates effective field verification techniques to ensure that BIM content matches the actual built conditions. Some contractors leverage laser scanning and other reality-capture technologies to verify modeled content prior to turnover, but these approaches can be time- and resource-intensive. Augmented reality (AR) enables users to view BIM content overlaid on their field of view of the built space. Research suggests potential for using AR for tasks related to field verification, but a study that systematically explores the specific types of deviations that can be detected with this technology is missing from the current literature. This paper tasks participants with using immersive AR to identify deviations from BIM in a ceiling plenum space that includes installed Mechanical, Electrical and Plumbing (MEP) components, which would typically be included in a coordinated BIM. The results suggest that AR can enable users to effectively identify large deviations and missing building elements. However, the results do not indicate that AR effectively enables users to identify small deviations and can potentially lead to identifying false positive observations, where accurately constructed elements are perceived as deviating from BIM. These results suggest that immersive AR can effectively be used to check whether recently built elements conform to the intended BIM in instances where speed of verification is more important than adhering to strict tolerances. For instances where accuracy (less than two inches) is critical, the results of this work suggest that AR can be used to help determine where in the building more accurate, but more resource-intensive, reality-capture technologies should be used.

Evaluating the use of virtual reality for maintainability-focused design reviews

“…Specifically, the access-related maintainability inputs provided, time required for providing inputs, and perceived quality of the inputs provided by O&M practitioners using VR are compared to inputs provided with traditional 2D drawings and 3D models. This quasi-experimental methodology was adapted from similar studies that investigated the use of augmented reality for conducting design reviews and completing construction tasks in comparison to 2D drawings (Chalhoub et al, 2021a(Chalhoub et al, , 2021bChalhoub and Ayer, 2018;Hartless et al, 2019;Lee et al, 2020).…”

Using Augmented Reality in Different BIM Workflows

“…The use case clearly addresses the use of AR in the operation and maintenance phase (7D, see also Figure 2) of the life cycle [26,27]. BIM model (3D geometry only) was available and correctly georeferenced via the mobile platform used [6].…”

Remodeling as a circular approach in built facilities: an assessment of lifecycle factors towards successful delivery

“…As-built data demonstrate the actual physical details of the construction, and the routing of cables, pipes, and ducts. New technologies can be facilitated for backing up missed information, such as: 3D Scanners for point cloud mapping, ultrasound detection, robotic inspections and condition assessment and infra-red thermal detection (Chalhoub et al, 2021). Aiming at an efficient and safe remodeling activities, the design team needs to acquire the as-built data of the existing building, to identify any concealed construction details and systems.…”

“…As-built data demonstrate the actual physical details of the construction, and the routing of cables, pipes, and ducts. New technologies can be facilitated for backing up missed information, such as: 3D Scanners for point cloud mapping, ultrasound detection, robotic inspections and condition assessment and infra-red thermal detection (Chalhoub et al. , 2021).…”