Identification of application areas for Augmented Reality in industrial construction based on technology suitability

Research studies in the application of Augmented Reality (AR) in the Architecture, Engineering, and Construction (AEC) industry have suggested its feasibility. However, realization of the use of AR in AEC requires not only demonstration of feasibility but also validation of its suitability. This paper comprehensively identifies AR application areas in industrial construction based on suitability of AR technologies. In order to successfully explore suitability of AR, this paper assesses work tasks from the viewpoint of human factors regarding visual information requirements to find rationale for the benefits of AR in work tasks. Based on the assessment of work tasks, this paper presents a comprehensive map that identifies AR application areas in industrial construction. The comprehensive map reveals that eight work tasks (layout, excavation, positioning, inspection, coordination, supervision, commenting, and strategizing) out of 17 classified work tasks may potentially benefit from AR support.