Open AccessPilot study of the use of augmented reality (AR) in rock mechanics
Author(s) -
Catrin Edelbro,
R Ylitalo,
Jason Furtney
Publication year - 2021
Publication title -
iop conference series. earth and environmental science
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
eISSN - 1755-1307
pISSN - 1755-1315
DOI - 10.1088/1755-1315/833/1/012166
Subject(s) - augmented reality , excavation , visualization , field (mathematics) , computer science , rock mechanics , mining engineering , construction engineering , geology , engineering , human–computer interaction , geotechnical engineering , artificial intelligence , mathematics , pure mathematics
Augmented Reality (AR) is a relatively new and exciting technology that provides a real-world view with additional computer-generated enhancements. This paper presents the results from a pilot study on how AR can be used in rock mechanics and introduces cases linked to the use of AR in fields relevant for rock mechanics. To capture the need from the industry, a workshop was arranged and complemented with open-ended qualitative interviews. Nearly 60 people responded and identified several items as being important information to enhance the real-world view: underground excavations, geological information, geomechanical model, rock support and reinforcement, results from analysis, and measurements. Almost all respondents wanted to use AR for visualization of weak zones and structures. Using AR as a communication tool and for navigation and safety aspects was also highlighted. However, the vision is to visualize real-time analysis results in the field underground and to be able to do real-time adjustments of the design. Future tunnel inspections were suggested to be more strategic. The most difficult issue to solve at the moment is localization and positioning for underground excavations. The identified low-hanging fruit for near-future studies is, therefore, visualization for rock slopes.