Augmented Reality to increase efficiency of MEP construction: a case study

Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing (MEP) play a crucial role in civil construction projects. MEP is characterized by various interdisciplinary and interconnected activities of multiple trades. Traditionally, not updated design information and communication problems are very common in this industry. Thus, schedule delays and cost overruns are frequent in MEP construction projects. Furthermore, relatively low penetration of digitization and very few applications of new technologies can be mentioned as main inhibitors for performance improvements in this industry. Augmented Reality (AR) in combination with Building Information Modeling (BIM) are some of the emerging technologies that support providing information in real-time, on-demand and location-based. By using as case study, a multistorey apartment building we compared the performance of conventionally MEP practices and the support with an AR head-mounted display. The study results showed measurable benefits in terms of significant reductions in execution time. However, also potential negative effects like increased work accident risks were recognized. The results are further discussed in a SWOT analysis that examines the AR application in terms of performance inhibitors and enhancers in both internal and external settings. Future research activities should consist of developing a standardized implementation model to best exploit the benefits of AR also within other construction trades.