There will be 3.5 billion augmented reality (AR) users by the year 2022, according to Digi-Capital.\u00a0 <\/p>\n\n\n\n
AR is blurring the line between the physical site and virtual design. With AR-enabled devices at their disposal, site managers can project 3D constructs over existing landscapes and design their projects with more accuracy than ever before. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
AR provides the ability to conceptualist in-field design that impacts from the planning stages through to the completion phase of a project.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Planning<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n The role of AR in construction begins with the initial planning stages. Whether you\u2019re working on a small commercial design or a large infrastructure scheme, AR can display the project\u2019s impact on the surrounding landscape and provide an accurate view of layers and other installations. <\/p>\n\n\n\n With AR technology, designers can plot complex designs and geometries using building information software (BIM) to generate detailed 3D models. <\/p>\n\n\n\n For instance, Crossrail began life as a digital 3D model and contractors could access this information to help them with their work. This was particularly useful in the early building stages, once the designs had been finalised. \u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n The recently launched Trimble SiteVision enables users to view detailed 3D visualisations of their designs to spot any problems or safety hazards that could occur early on and use this insight to improve their designs. The handheld tool combines the latest AR software with global navigation satellite system (GNSS) survey data. <\/p>\n\n\n\n