Employing New Methods of Integrated Technology During Construction
As part of an exciting collaboration, members of Plan Group’s Engineering and CAD Services (ECS) and Technology teams recently visited a project site in downtown Toronto to pilot the innovative Trimble XR10 with HoloLens 2.Trimble XR10 is the only HoloLens 2 solution compatible with an industry standard hardhat and certified for use in safety controlled environments. Using augmented reality, the device can project 3D holograms of design models into the space in front of the person wearing it, allowing both the design and the construction teams to actually see what the upcoming installations will look like in place.
The HoloLens 2 provides real-life clash detection support meaning it can identify if — and where, or how — two parts of the building are interfering with one another. This cutting-edge device supports our review of the design model and allows us to identify potential installation problems, helping our team avoid oversights at an early stage of the project.Using augmented reality, the device can project 3D holograms of design models into the space in front of the person wearing it, allowing both the design and the construction teams to actually see what the upcoming installations will look like in place.
The team’s goal during this particular pilot was to verify the physical locations of “turn-ups and turn-downs”, the conduit that electrical cables are run through the concrete walls. This way, the design and installation teams can make sure every turn-up and turn-down has it’s allotted space, and we can avoid those potential installation clashes mentioned above.
During their HoloLens 2 pilot on site, the joint team:
- Created 3D holograms for all the architectural, structural, mechanical backgrounds and the electrical and compartment rooms that can be reviewed at any time, and in any place, by our in-house designers.
- Added the ability for users to view these four models all at the same time.
- Used the HoloLens 2 to measure and analyse the electrical installations completed in the high voltage room onsite, to see how the installation compared to the virtual design model.
- Used the HoloLens 2 to measure the space between different pieces of equipment, to help verify the accuracy of the installations done.
Using the HoloLens 2 really helps Plan Group “Bring Ideas to Life”. We are excited to see that this futuristic and innovative technology is being put to great use on many of our high-profile projects.
Great work everybody