Once reserved for science fiction movies, holographic 3D images have made their way into everyday construction applications at Baker Group.

Especially beneficial for complex industrial and data center clients, “Augmented reality places a 3D model of the design plan onto our client’s existing, real-life space,” explains Steve Brommel, Baker Group’s Virtual Design Construction Manager.

“Our client, team members and other trades simply look through a HoloLens or use mobile software to see how the plan intersects with reality. It’s a game-changer in quality control,” Brommel says.

Benefits of augmented reality (AR) include:  

• Data is captured and documented
• Information is instantly shared with collaborators
• Potential problems are detected before prefabrication and construction begin
• Saves time, reduces unnecessary costs, improves safety
• Facilitates faster, more accurate inspections

How It Works
Logan Richards, Baker Group’s Systems Administrator/Engineer, says AR goes hand in hand with building information modeling (BIM).

“Laser scans provide the data that we use for BIM. We then load the BIM model into the AR system, take it into the actual building and see real-time holographic images of the model on top of what’s behind the wall or ceiling. There’s no technical skill required; it’s just a matter of putting on the HoloLens or looking at an iPad,” Richards says.

Steve Heathcote, Baker Group’s Sheet Metal Detailing Team Leader and Revit/BIM software user is responsible for exporting BIM models to AR. “The biggest benefit is with complex structures or compressed work areas. Rather than looking at a design idea or concept on a computer screen, our clients can see it in their space with images projected into their reality,” Heathcote says.  

“Clients Love It”
Last month, Baker Group used AR to present its design plans for a large electrical project on site. Dave Halverson, Senior Electrical Detailer, says, “We created a 3D model of the work we had planned, loaded it into the AR system and took it to the facility to have the client approve the model by viewing it through the HoloLens. There aren’t many contractors in Iowa using this technology, so there’s a wow factor. Our client was blown away by it.”

Shawn Hunt, Electrical Engineering Manager, adds, “In an intricate project like this, so many things can change frequently after construction begins. AR helps assure that we get it right the first time – that’s huge. It also increases our opportunities to prefabricate components and assemblies in our Advanced Manufacturing facility, which is especially important when labor shortages exist, such as now.”