Augmented Reality to Visualise Utilities

The use of new and emerging technology can aid the construction process by helping to visualise the completed works. This technology can therefore be an excellent planning and training tool.

See the examples below for how one site addressed this:

• The contractor uses augmented reality to visualise utilities before excavation begins.
• Combined with utility information from STATS companies and PAS128 compliant GPR surveys, data is input into the augmented reality system which means it can be viewed live onsite as an overlay to the site surrounding.
• To use the augmented reality data the user simply opens an app on their iPad.
• The main benefits of this system include:
  – Helps the operatives quickly match up the plans and permits to the visual indications on site
  – Since its use there has been no utility damage
  – Simple interface the operative can use to reconfirm
• The next step for the contractor is to start using the augmented reality data as part of the health and safety file handed over to the client.

The system has been popular with the workforce, and the contractor is now looking to expand its use across other projects.