From BIM to Inspection: A Comparative Analysis of Assistive Embedment Inspection

Embedments (embeds) are used extensively in construction for the attachment of dissimilar construction materials, such as, concrete to steel and wood to concrete. Coordinating the layout, delivery, and placement of these embeds is a sensitive construction chore, one that if not done properly, can lead to considerable lost productivity, delayed schedules, and cost overruns. This coordination is further complicated by the fact that most embeds are installed in the project by one trade contractor to be used by an entirely different trade contractor later in the project. As a result, the construction manager undertakes routine inspections to minimize future complications if those embeds are missed or incorrectly placed. Therefore, it is crucial that the inspection process is as complete as possible to ensure a project's success. The construction industry is also shifting to a digital twin approach in the management of the construction process whereby parametric models are finding more use in the inspection process. Coupling this technology with augmented reality (AR) allows inspectors to use BIMs in unique and more informative ways. In this paper the researchers examine three different inspection processes, a traditional 2-dimensional paper inspection, an AR + BIM inspection, and an AR + BIM inspection with interactive queues. Quantitative data were collected with each method along with qualitative feedback from the participants to gauge perceived effectiveness of their inspection. Among the three methods, it was evident that the use of AR improved through its development. However, from the qualitative feedback, it was discovered that some visuals in the AR assisted inspection were distracting, leading the researcher to conclude that visual elements in AR can affect the inspection outcomes. Furthermore, the researchers discuss recommendations for using AR + BIM for embed inspections in the context of using assistive technology for that process.