Extending Access to BIM Information: Merging Augmented Reality Interfaces and Semantic Enrichment

The potential of combining Building Information Modeling (BIM) and Augmented Reality (AR) has proven beneficial in various Architecture, Engineering, Construction and Operations (AECO) sectors. Despite the gradual adoption of BIM, there is a need for integrative and coordinated interfaces that can leverage the different academic backgrounds, profiles, and tacit knowledge of stakeholders in the AECO sector. As one of the most important research areas related to BIM, AR provides the necessary functionality to improve access to BIM information. This paper describes the early development phases of a BIM-based AR interface for semantic enrichment of BIM models for the HoloLens head-mounted display (HMD). Specifically, the interface provides more natural access to BIM information, even for users with no prior experience or knowledge of BIM tools. Initial lab tests have been conducted to evaluate the feasibility of using voice and gesture interactions to link semantic data to physical objects, which are then transformed into BIM information.