Technology has been constantly playing a pivotal role in helping transform several work environments over the past few decades. Whether it was the first time a robot entered a manufacturing unit or when students could access live classes from virtually anywhere, technological advancement has shown great potential in each circumstance. Though still not a widely explored technology, augmented reality has helped elevate the business and operational standards of a volley of industries. Incorporating digital technologies with labor-laden sectors such as construction has opened doorways for the widespread deployment of immersive technologies.
Augmented reality (AR) in construction has helped developers and business owners realize that alternative reality technologies can be implemented beyond the realms of just entertainment. Furthermore, AR is constantly crossing boundaries to bring efficiency even into the most monotonous areas of the industry. This blog will talk in-depth about the impact of augmented reality in this industry.
Areas of impact for AR in the construction industry
The association and implementation of augmented reality in construction have impacted several verticals within the industry, transforming each function into an elevated, more intelligent version of itself. Let’s look at the areas in this sector that AR has positively impacted.
1- Team collaboration
Collaborative techniques worldwide have seen a positive transformation over the last few years. A considerable part of the credit can be attributed to immersive technologies such as augmented reality. Construction as industry demands efficient and constant collaboration, given the nature of operations. Several operations in the sector require all hands on deck to see processes from production to repairs through. In this event, time is often lost when a company has to rely on physical presence. Augmented reality allows all participants/employees necessary for a particular task to access the on-site progress remotely. Take, for instance, a machine that needs repair and requires the assistance of three members. If all members can’t be present on-site simultaneously, they can use an AR platform to supervise and assist an employee who is physically present to conduct the repairs. This not only saves production time but also eliminates the incurrence of overhead costs. Real-time problem solving and error correction can then be done remotely, safely, and more efficiently.
2- Project planning
Construction projects, first and foremost, start with planning and layouts. Instead of depicting a project plan using 2D drawing, augmented reality allows architects and other employees to project layers and elements onto a building plan. This will enable stakeholders to get a detailed insight into what the project would look like upon completion. Furthermore, it makes it easier to make modifications to plans and provides a better estimate for stakeholders to make quick decisions. It also offers a more precise sense of design and better plan implementation.
3- Safety Training
Due to the high stakes of the construction business and the presence of a considerable amount of human power, training settings on-site can often be a dangerous affair. To ensure safety regulations are met while protecting employees from any hazardous incidents, augmented reality can help create a safe training environment. This is also true for those training to operate heavy machinery and handle dangerous materials. Since training in industry-specific operations and activities is expensive, time-consuming, and highly dependent on the health of a machine on any particular day, AR platforms offer a safe, cost-saving, and effective alternative. Employees can undergo extensive remote training without being physically present at the sites, allowing them to understand concepts and learn operations more objectively.
However, the impact of AR is not limited to the areas mentioned above. Since the global pandemic had a tumultuous influence on businesses of all forms, the incorporation of AR in building brick-and-mortar sites and construction allowed for some leeway without burning a hole in the pocket or compromising employee safety. One of the most widespread but low-efficiency industries, this sector is expected to see a high demand for AR technology. This can also be attributed to the fact that augmented reality offers a platform for improving the sustainability of construction and design needs.
If operational efficiency is something your construction business needs to maximize the company’s potential, write to us at [email protected].
