Planning, building and maintaining buildings and infrastructure just got much easier for Company-X clients being offered innovative new technology.

Company-X is making new technology available to clients that use Building Information Modelling (BIM) data paired with Augmented Reality (AR).

BIM is a coordinated set of processes, supported by technology, that add value through the sharing of structured information for buildings and infrastructure assets, according to BIMinNZ. AR superimposes a computer-generated three dimensional model on a user's view of the real world.

AR paired with BIM enables the viewing of computer-generated models layered over the real world.

The applications of AR paired with BIM are endless, said Company-X emerging technology specialist Dilan Prasad.

“Architects can use AR-enhanced BIM to immerse themselves and their clients in their design either in the office or on the construction site. They can use it to see how their design works and get feedback from the client before any work begins.

“Builders can use AR-enhanced BIM to help establish exactly where each part of the building should be constructed. It can also be used to help route infrastructures such as air conditioning ducts, electrical cabling and water pipes.

“Building inspectors can use AR-enhanced BIM to compare plans with the end result.

Contractors looking to repair broken infrastructure or make modifications to the building can use AR paired with BIM to find hidden infrastructure in the floor, walls or ceilings.

“There’s huge potential for this technology.”