An integrated framework using Augmented Reality (AR) and Building Information Modeling (BIM) for enhancing the stakeholders' interaction in 4d modeling of linear projects

The project schedule is a critical factor in project success in the Architecture, Engineering, and Construction (AEC) industry. An efficient schedule can develop a shared vision (i.e., understanding) among project stakeholders. The traditional construction industry uses paper documents such as Gantt charts to visualize the sequence of construction activities. However, it might be challenging for stakeholders to comprehend the schedule, particularly in large-scale construction projects (e.g., pipeline construction projects). The recent development of 4D modeling schedules (i.e., integration of Gantt charts and the 3D digital model) within the Building Information Modeling (BIM) environment has facilitated a better understanding of the project schedule. However, the process of developing 4D scheduled in large-scale linear projects is still demanding. Given that smartphones are becoming increasingly popular and widely available, their potential use in the construction industry is emerging. Nowadays, various smartphone applications are employed in the industry, some are equipped with the fascinating feature of Augmented Reality (AR). AR is an emerging technology being actively developed by major corporations (e.g., Google, Microsoft, and Apple). Several researchers have studied AR and its potential applications in the AEC industry, including visualization, simulation, communication, collaboration, information modeling, access to information and evaluation, progress monitoring, education, safety, and inspection. This study introduces a hybrid BIM and AR framework to monitor construction schedules and demonstrate the linear progress of construction projects. A cloud database (Cloud DB) is used to communicate and share information between BIM and AR. It also provides a more powerful visualized schedule based on the AR technology (comparing to the 4D BIM-based schedule) to facilitate a deeper understanding of the stakeholders (e.g., digest and update the project schedule) and to enhance the project control. Finally, the capabilities of the developed platform are demonstrated successfully by applying it to an actual water pipeline case study. Employing the developed framework by the consultant company demonstrates some advantages of the developed hybrid framework compared to the traditional scheduling approach and 4D BIM schedules.