A hierarchical taxonomy of aec operations for mixed reality applications

Mixed Reality (MR), or more specifically Augmented Reality (AR) technology, is frequently mentioned as a solution to human performance problems of degraded perception and cognition. There have been few attempts to develop lab-based MR prototypes for architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) operations and thus no commercial MR applications can be found in the industry today. It is envisioned that useful MR systems will support the execution of information-intensive tasks, and identification of opportunities for MR requires analysis of AEC tasks at the appropriate level of detail. This paper develops an AEC task taxonomy and task analysis method for understanding the nature of a given task from a user-centered perspective. The composite and primitive levels are deemed appropriate levels for MR mapping to technology. The paper also identifies a set of influencing factors that should be analyzed and considered while selecting from among the MR technological component alternatives. Until construction product and process design become more highly integrated, MR technology applications can only occur at the lower level task, constrained to very limited application areas.

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