Issue link: https://fieldtech.trimble.com/resources/i/1499217
Can the solution operate without Internet or cellular connectivity? Why it's important: Even on many modern construction sites internet access can be intermittent. This feature enables the use of AR in remote locations and cellular dead zones, while also saving on mobile data usage. Is the solution capable of multiple modes of accurate measurement? Why it's important: An AR solution with multiple modes of measuring allows the user to measure between points in the real world, points in the model, or between the model and the real world. Some recent mobile devices now incorporate LIDAR sensors. If supported, these sensors can drastically improve the accuracy of AR measurements to the real world. Does the solution have reporting capabilities? Why it's important: Reporting capabilities allow users to make notes in the field, take photos, and assign tasks to others to ensure thorough follow-up on any concerns, decisions, or changes. It enables everyone to come away with the same understanding of the project and any outstanding needs, and communicate about them effectively. And since photos are geo-referenced and timestamped, it also makes inspections much easier and more productive. Can the solution accommodate 2D drawings? Why it's important: Workers who are still relying on 2D drawings to some degree will want a solution that allows them to perform detailed interactions with PDFs and view them as overlays on the ground or over a surface at real-world scale. This enables users to visualize the 2D representation of the design in its actual physical environment and gives teams not yet working with 3D models the ability to experience the benefits of AR. Is the solution compatible with a variety of open industry standards and file formats? Why it's important: An AR solution that can integrate with a range of data collection, design, and modeling tools—such as AutoCad ® , Archicad ® , ESRI ® , Revit ® , SketchUp, Tekla ® and Trimble ® —and in a variety of industry standard and third-party file types, including RVT, NWD, SKP, IFC, TRB, LandXML, DGN, and DWG, brings the greatest versatility and flexibility to your AR use cases and workflows. Can the solution measure lines and areas? Why it's important: AEC professionals are well aware of the need to make measurements of lines and areas in the field. It is important to understand the dimensions of what is being built, is going to be built or has been completed.Such a capability is necessary for checking and inspection purposes. Contractors can verify and prove what part of their work has been fulfilled from what remains. Engineers can verify provided measurements to make sure that their proposed solutions will fit, or can make measurements themselves to be aware of the area that needs to be done. Is the solution part of a larger connected portfolio? Why it's important: Augmented reality is by its nature a field technology. But to create and manage the model designs, and document issue reviews, resolutions and cost impacts requires a suite of office software. From modeling software to project controls, there are many adjacent business systems that can benefit from seamless integrations to augmented reality field applications.