Augmented reality in architectural construction, inspection, and renovation

We present our preliminary work in developing augmented reality systems to improve methods for the construction, inspection, and renovation of architectural structures. Augmented reality systems add virtual computer-generated material to the surrounding physical world. Our augmented reality systems use see-through head-worn displays to overlay graphics and sounds on a person's naturally occurring vision and hearing. As the person moves about, the position and orientation of his or her head is tracked, allowing the overlaid material to remain tied to the physical world. We describe an experimental augmented reality system that shows the location of columns behind a finished wall, the location of re-bars inside one of the columns, and a structural analysis of the column. We also discuss our preliminary work in developing an augmented reality system for improving the construction of spaceframes. Potential uses of more advanced augmented reality systems are presented.