FTG ENG | eBooks

By combining the real world with the virtual world, construction companies are supporting a new way of working with models and increasing collabora- tion throughout the building lifecycle, providing stakeholders with current and accurate data on their worksites. New wearable, immersive mixed reality devices are being integrated with software to deliver even more value. Paired with a compliant hard hat, the complete solution can map the physical environment and provide precise alignment of holographic data on the jobsite. More than simply the ability to look at the model, advanced MR solutions give users access to critical building information modeling (BIM) data embedded within project components. By visualizing and "walking through" their projects in the digital world, teams can route changes and RFIs much more quickly and also accelerate the pre-construction process. They can also identify site issues earlier to reduce downstream rework and prevent chaos during the coordination. This is helping companies shorten project schedules, reduce costs, and support additional workflows like on-site assembly, progress tracking using 4D models, and even asset management. MR in Action: How Mixed Reality is Transforming Construction MR also helps field workers know exactly what task to perform and provides instant feedback to help identify clashes or differences between the model and the as-built environment. When field workers can see their models overlaid in the physical environment, more precise collaboration, project tracking, and project coordination is possible. Finally, MR solutions are playing a key role in enabling quality assurance coordination and clash detection much earlier in the project lifecycle by coordinating multiple 3D models, which is better than using a 2D screen where it's easy to overlook issues. Contractors can review and approve mission-critical designs by verifying the interaction and constructability of complex systems before they're fabricated and installed. It also saves costs by helping to catch potential issues in the virtual world before something gets built, so companies don't have to tear things out and start over. As digital transformation continues in the construction industry and beyond, MR will play a bigger role in helping companies integrate and use technology in ways that have yet to be imagined.

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