Enhancing the Stability and Placement Accuracy of BIM Model Projections for Augmented Reality-Based Site Management of Infrastructure Projects

The utilization of Building Information Modeling (BIM) on-site has been limited due to the lack of an appropriate medium for visualizing and accessing models and project data intuitively in the field. AROS, an Augmented Reality-based site management system, was developed to allow the visual projection of BIM models and relevant data directly to field personnel. Detailed field experiments with inspection experts revealed specific issues with the stability and accurate placement of model projections in AROS. Projection stability was improved by reducing the number of triangle meshes of the model to relieve the need for processing power. Investigations revealed that simplification rates of 40% and 20% were optimal for rectilinear and curvilinear components, respectively. Projection placement was improved by implementing a hybrid of target anchoring methods. Specifically, ARWorldMap was used to add additional anchor points, which were identified from the topologies of the structure and surrounding planes. Post-evaluations demonstrated increased stability and reductions in displacement errors. The formalizations provide measures for using AR and BIM models when applying these technologies to large-scale civil infrastructure projects.