HD4AR: High-Precision Mobile Augmented Reality Using Image-Based Localization

Abstract

Construction projects require large amounts of cyber-information, such as 3D models, in order to achieve success. Unfortunately, this information is typically difficult for construction field personnel to access and use on-site, due to the highly mobile nature of the job and hazardous work environments. Field personnel rely on carrying around large stacks of construction drawings, diagrams, and specifications, or traveling to a trailer to look up information electronically, reducing potential project efficiency. This thesis details my work on Hybrid 4-Dimensional Augmented Reality, known as HD4AR, a mobile augmented reality system for construction projects that provides high-precision visualization of semantically-rich 3D cyber-information over real-world imagery. The thesis examines the challenges related to augmenting reality on a construction site, describes how HD4AR overcomes these challenges, and empirically evaluates the capabilities of HD4AR.