Issue link: https://fieldtech.trimble.com/resources/i/1499217
Step 1: Define Your Requirements Before you decide on an AR solution, you want to make sure it provides the features and capabilities that are most important for your needs. Developing a list of these requirements will give you a well- defined process for evaluating specific vendor solutions. Here are some questions you'll want to answer as you define your specific requirements: What are the hardware requirements of the solution? Why it's important: An AR solution that pairs a powerful positioning system with a readily available device like a smartphone makes the tool accessible to a range of users. Operation of a system via mobile app is straightforward and intuitive. The user is able to see the 3D model overlaid onto the physical location in realtime using the smartphone's built-in camera. Sensors in the positioning system detect when the user moves or changes their field of view and automatically correct the 3D overlay to maintain its position. The user is able to visualize the design in accurate context, with no special training or skills required. Does the solution include integrated data management and visualization software? Why it's important: Data management is a key aspect of getting your 3D content into an AR application. Inclusion of a cloud-based collaborative platform where content can be optimized, stored, and then accessed for use on the AR device further enables all users of the solution to access and interact with the same 3D data. Does the solution offer some kind of infrastructure for aligning the model on site? Why it's important: A crucial step for any AR app is to align the 3D model to the real job site. While there are manual methods to do this, some systems offer QR Marker based, or similar physical infrastructure to simplify the alignment process. These physical markers can be installed around the job site and make the solution much easier for your field teams to adopt with minimal training.