Digital Work Lab AR Research

Welcome to the AR Lab!

Where the future unfolds through Augmented Reality! Explore the boundaries of innovation as we blend the digital and physical worlds to create immersive experiences that redefine possibilities. At the AR Lab, our mission is to delve into the contemporary landscape and practical applications of augmented reality within organizational settings. We are dedicated to exploring the dynamic intersection of AR technology and organizational environments to unlock innovative solutions and enhance the way we work and collaborate.

Augmented Reality (AR) has witnessed significant advancements in recent years, increasingly used in various settings. Nevertheless, it remains largely experimental in organizational contexts. While the use of AR holds immense promise for improving individual and organizational performance, the absence of a clear comprehension of its benefits, and ultimately its value, is a major impediment to its widespread adoption. This PhD thesis, conducted by Nastaran Mohammadhossein under the supervision of Alex Richter, seeks to provide a better understanding of the value of using AR in organizational settings. The study is conducted in two steps: systematically reviewing research on the use of AR and investigating how AR experts perceive its value. Presently, we are conducting interviews with AR experts from both academic and practical backgrounds. The results will enable organizations to make more informed investment decisions and develop more effective AR strategies.

In the ever-evolving landscape of technology, one innovation stands out for its transformative impact on the construction industry – Augmented Reality (AR). This powerful tool is reshaping how construction projects are planned, executed, and managed. In the construction realm, AR is more than visualization; it’s the fusion of digital and physical.

Trimble’s Use Case:

Among the well-known companies adopting AR for construction in New Zealand is Trimble, a technology company known for its broad spectrum of solutions. In a recent interview with one of the Managers, we gained insights into how Trimble is harnessing AR to revolutionize construction workflows.

Watch Trimble in Action

AR Solutions:

• Connect AR: Facilitates outdoor construction visualization, allowing stakeholders to see designs in their real-world context.
• Connect AR MR: Utilizing HoloLens 2, extends this capability to indoor construction, providing an immersive mixed reality experience.

Key Transformations Enabled by AR Solutions:

1. Efficient Communication and Visualization:
   • AR solutions bridge the communication gap by providing a shared platform for stakeholders. General contractors and subcontractors can walk through detailed designs together, ensuring everyone is on the same page.
2. On-Site Issue Resolution:
   • Traditional construction checks, such as pre-construction, during construction, and post-construction inspections, are streamlined with on-site AR capabilities. Issues can be identified and resolved in real-time, reducing delays and costly rework.
3. Enhanced Decision-Making:
   • AR solutions empower stakeholders with on-site, real-time information. This enhances decision-making processes, leading to more informed choices and improved overall project efficiency.

The AR Value:

The adoption of AR in construction represents a paradigm shift. It’s not merely a technological add-on; it’s an essential tool for improving collaboration, reducing errors, and accelerating project timelines. As AR continues to redefine how we interact with the world, its impact on construction is undeniable. Trimble’s innovative use of AR showcases the potential to revolutionize construction workflows, making them more efficient, collaborative, and error-free. The construction industry is stepping into a future where the line between the digital and physical worlds is blurred, and projects are brought to life in ways previously unimaginable.