6 Uses for Augmented Reality in Construction (2023)

01 January 2023

With ground-breaking solutions to the key pain points that construction companies face, augmented reality (AR) has the potential to revolutionize the construction industry.

The use of augmented reality in construction can resolve long-standing issues that have proven to be true for the construction industry. With the help of augmented reality technology, project delays, decreases in productivity, rework, and budget overruns can be avoided.

Here’s a list of the most common uses of augmented reality in construction.

1. Planning and realistic 3D modeling

The modern design process encompasses extensive planning and the use of realistic 3D modeling software also known as BIM (building information modeling). In recent years, augmented reality has transformed how architects, engineers, and construction teams design and model structures.

By using augmented reality in construction, designers can produce interactive 3D models to scale. This makes it easier for architects and engineers to visualize and assess designs before they’re completed, allowing for easier problem-solving and issue detection in the early stages of planning.

2. Real-time project information

For a construction project to be successful, stakeholders must have access to updates in real-time. Augmented reality in construction allows each team member to receive real-time project information and stay up-to-date on designs and changes. This helps boost productivity, lower costs, and improve communication overall.

One of the key advantages of AR is its ability to project digital information onto real environments. This allows users to see accurate design information relative to the construction site.

When project managers put on AR headsets like the Atom™, they can view interactive 3D BIM models of the project on-site, making it much easier to find and fix problems compared to doing so from behind a desk in the office.

3. Clash detection

One of the key features of BIM (building information modeling) is the ability to detect clashes and conflicts before construction begins. Identifying issues in the pre-construction stage allows teams to address conflicts early, eliminating rework, ultimately saving time and money.

BIM has improved the traditional on-site clash detection process, and the addition of augmented reality in construction will only enhance the capabilities of BIM software. Instead of multiple models for each update, AR allows construction teams to easily detect issues and fix them on the spot.

XYZ Reality’s Atom™ headset allows teams to see multiple design layers simultaneously and resolve design conflicts on-site. Changes sync to the XYZ BIM viewer so workers can view it directly in the software.

4. Team collaboration

Any team's success depends on how well its members work together. By enabling a shared visual experience that improves efficiency, communication, and understanding, augmented reality has the potential to drastically improve communication and collaboration.

All team members will have access to the same 3D model at any time, from any location, making it possible for stakeholders to be on the same page at all times.

The XYZ Reality tool suite is revolutionizing the way teams work together. Integration between the Atom™, XYZ BIM, and the XYZ platform bridges the gap between on-site and offsite workers. Cloud-based technology allows everyone, from architects to contractors, to always have the most up-to-date information on designs.

5. Accurate measuring

Using augmented reality in construction enables construction and engineering teams to achieve more precise and accurate measurements.

Interactive 3D models with augmented reality mean a more detailed and accurate view compared to traditional 2D blueprints or even 3D BIM models on a computer screen. AR helps bring designs to life, which can help cut down mistakes to ensure each build is done right the first time around.

XYZ’s Engineering Grade AR™ technology allows teams to map 3D models of designs over the construction site to preview designs and adjust measurement issues immediately. The powerful Engineering Grade AR™, depicts models to scale, yet allows users to make adjustments down the millimeter.

Changes made by individuals using the Atom™ sync to the cloud automatically and can be seen in the XYZ BIM viewer. With incredible precision and unbeatable performance, XYZ Reality’s Atom™ is like no other.

6. Reducing safety hazards

Many industries, including construction, manufacturing, and transportation, place a high priority on on-site safety. With so many workers and moving parts, it’s essential to ensure every team member stays safe while on site.

AR in construction translates to a much more streamlined workflow. With this, construction sites can speed up project timelines and reduce the potential for rework. Less rework means less time on-site and fewer opportunities for incidents and safety hazards.

When you deploy XYZ Reality technology for your construction project, not only do you get access to Engineering Grade AR™, but also an XYZ field application engineer to help you integrate the patented AR technology into your project workflow.

Use XYZ Reality’s platform for AR

As the construction industry continues to adopt technology to improve processes, the potential for augmented reality in construction is limitless. Implementing the newest technology not only helps your teams get work done faster and better the first time around, but it also gives your business an edge in the construction game.

XYZ Reality is a purpose-built platform that utilizes AR to help you build more effectively. Our industry-leading Atom™ headset lets you view 3D holograms of your designs with incredible accuracy and precision.

Book a demo with XYZ Reality today!