Augmented Reality (AR) tool for building renovation and maintenance
AEGIR case study published in the Journal of Façade Design and Engineering
Tecnalia, an AEGIR project partner, has had an article, “Cost-Effective Augmented Reality Tool for Enhanced Building Envelope Panel Handling: Installation and Validation,” published in Volume 13 of the Journal of Façade Design and Engineering.
As part of the AEGIR project, aimed at upgrading older, non-renovated buildings by retrofitting their envelopes to meet the European climate targets required by 2050, an Augmented Reality (AR) tool was developed. The article presents findings from utilizing a low-cost AR tool used to facilitate the renovation and maintenance process of buildings. This tool is specifically useful in the application of AEGIR’s plug-and-play methodology in building renovation, where panels are assembled like a large puzzle.
The AR tool bridges the gap between digital information and the real-world environment, allowing users to visualise information about the components to be installed in the actual location. Additionally, the tool has the option to display further information (such as safety instructions or installation details) related to each panel, ensuring that workers have all necessary information on-site.
Developed as a web-based Single Page Application (SPA) compatible with standard smartphones and tablets via WebXR, the tool eliminates the need for expensive hardware or software installations. The tool demonstrates the feasibility of using a cost-effective AR solution to provide necessary information to on-site operators, as well as to generate real-time Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) and alerts that managers can consult.
The complete article is available for download from the journal’s webpage.