Virtual reality set to spread across construction sites
Virtual reality systems developed on Crossrail are set to be implemented across construction in a bid to cut costs by up to 25%.
Innovate UK is pumping £1m of funding into a programme to develop an Augmented Worker System (AWE) for the industry. A consortium led by visualisation specialist Soluis is developing the wearable virtual reality equipment which was first used on Crossrail.
The firm said:
“The Augmented Worker System will provide the construction industry with augmented and virtual reality to improve the construction process at every stage, meeting these standards.”
Martin McDonnell, Chairman of Soluis Group said:
“The proof of concept project with Crossrail showed how this technology could be applied and add incredible value to the industry. Our vision was to develop this concept much further and create a set of tools that would form the augmented worker of the future. For a business like us, we could only drive this innovation a certain amount and working with the consortium and receiving funding from Innovate UK will help us achieve this much faster and more effectively.”
The AWE system will be designed to drive greater certainty, safety, efficiency and sustainability through five key areas – co-design, digital job guidance, progress monitoring, safety guidance and asset management.
Source: Construction Enquirer
