Augmented Reality: The next frontier
BISPA is already working on developing a design platform in virtual reality (VR) for building services engineers. However, it is also important to develop tools for on-site use. This is where Augmented Reality (AR) becomes attractive. The idea is to superimpose high-resolution photorealistic information on top of the real world. This means anyone with an augmented reality headset or perhaps even just a pair of AR glasses in the near future can bring up information about a failed component and with a click of a button you could know its manufacturer, its part number, know if its within its warranty period, order the part directly from the manufacturer right-there right-then etc. This will result in lesser paperwork and reduced delays on-site. So, although VR is attractive for people who can hook themselves up in their offices and studios, AR is what on-site people will use on a day to day basis.