Scene Understanding for Dimensional Compliance Checks in Mixed-Reality

Abstract

Building inspections are critical for ensuring compliance with construction standards, but conventional methods, often manual, face challenges in efficiency and consistency due to heavy reliance on human factors. Mixed-reality (MR) solutions could potentially address these challenges as they reportedly achieve good efficiency and accuracy in mapping indoor environments. This research investigates the potential of utilizing a wearable MR device to perform dimensional checks through edge computing of device sensor data, reducing the reliance on human factors. The accuracy of MR-computed dimensions against ground truth data for common building elements was assessed. Results indicate that MR-computed dimensions align well with ground truth for simple objects, but complex objects such as staircases presented limitations in achieving satisfactory results. If-then checks applied to MR-computed dimensions for automated detection of non-compliance were successfully experimented. However, automating compliance checks for standards with complex rules requires further investigation. This research sheds light on the potential of MR solutions for building inspections and highlights future research directions to enhance its applicability and effectiveness in the construction industry.