The lines between reality and fiction are finally disappearing on construction sites. A new hard hat solution for Microsoft HoloLens is changing the way construction professionals design, build and operate. You don’t want to miss this
You’ve probably heard of augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR), but there’s another form of reality taking over construction sites. It’s called mixed reality.
What is mixed reality?
Mixed reality is a technology that merges real and virtual worlds to create brand new environments where physical and digital components can interact in real time. It’s “mixed” reality because it encompasses both augmented/virtual reality and the real world via immersive technology, letting you see the real environment overlaid with holographic data from a 3D model.
Mixed reality is transforming the way construction companies consume and interact with information. A recently released product combines both hardware and software to enable the education of onsite teams, so the crew knows exactly what task to perform and receives feedback instantaneously.
But the benefits go beyond the real-time sharing of information.
We wanted to see the hype in action, so we went on-site and let a few guys try the Trimble Connect app for Microsoft HoloLens mixed reality glasses for the very first time.
Here is their reaction:
“This is exactly what I’m seeing in the office, but you can actually get real life, which is great for a lot of remodels, especially hospitals. A lot of times, we can’t even see what’s already been built in a hospital, so being able to walk through with what we do versus what they already have would be great.”
How does Microsoft HoloLens mixed reality hardware and software work together?
Microsoft HoloLens is a mixed reality product that includes specialised components and a custom holographic technology processing unit, allowing people to go beyond a screen and into a part virtual, part real, world. This is transforming the way people are communicating, creating, collaborating, and even building.
Trimble’s Hard Hat Solution for Microsoft HoloLens leverages the benefits of mixed reality into areas where increased safety requirements are mandated. The relationship between hardware and software is strong, as the glasses are integrated with a holographic computer, which is all fitted safely and securely on an industry-standard hard hat.
The HoloLens is fitted inside of the hard hat so that workers can begin to experience the mixed reality environment – all while staying ANSI-compliant.
The components come together to form the Mixed Reality Hard Hat Solution.
The software, Trimble Connect for HoloLens, improves building coordination by combining models from multiple stakeholders such as structural, mechanical, and electrical trade partners. It provides for precise alignment of holographic data on a 1:1 scale on the job site, so workers can review models in the context of the physical environment.
Trimble Connect for HoloLens is available now through the Microsoft Windows App Store. A free trial option is also available, enabling integration with HoloLens. The paid subscription supports premium functionality, such as precise on-site alignment, collaboration, and measurement tools – all for less than a cup of coffee every day.
Trimble’s Hard Hat Solution for HoloLens will retail for $300 USD and is expected to be available in the first quarter of 2018. To learn more, visit mixedreality.trimble.com.
Sarah Null
Content Editor/Writer
Trimble MEP
Tel: +1 (304) 545-1624
Twitter: @TheSarahNull
Please note: this is a commercial profile.
