by Brianna Crandall — May 18, 2015—Design-build-operate software provider Trimble has announced that it is working with technology giant Microsoft to develop a new generation of tools, integrated with the HoloLens holographic platform on Windows 10, which are intended to improve quality, collaboration and efficiency in the design, construction and operation of buildings and structures. A proof of concept was demonstrated at Microsoft’s recent Build 2015 Developer Conference held in San Francisco.
Microsoft HoloLens is a head-mounted, holographic computer that provides a mixed-reality experience for a range of commercial and consumer applications. When used by architecture, engineering and construction (AEC) professionals, the potentially game-changing HoloLens device extends interaction with three-dimensional (3D) models beyond the confines of a 2D computer screen, creating new ways for the many stakeholders of complex, multi-phase construction projects to visualize, collaborate, share ideas and manage change.
Demonstration highlights design and collaboration scenarios
During the Build 2015 conference keynote session, Microsoft demonstrated how the integration of HoloLens with Trimble’s SketchUp 3D modeling software and the Trimble Connect collaboration platform could improve design and construction processes. Using HoloLens, architects were able to experience their SketchUp models as holograms placed in the real world—enabling them to quickly analyze various “what if” design scenarios in the context of the physical environment.
The demonstration also illustrated how using Trimble Connect with HoloLens holographic technology enables remote teams to effectively review and collaborate in order to resolve constructability issues in real time.
Initial development focus
Trimble’s initial research is focused on the integration of HoloLens with three Trimble solutions:
Trimble Connect – a collaboration environment for design, engineering and construction projects, based on Gehry Technologies’ GTeam software acquired by Trimble in in 2014, Trimble Connect enables teams to access and manage project data via a cloud platform.
SketchUp – the popular 3D modeling platform used by millions around the world to create, update and communicate designs in 3D.
Trimble V10 Imaging Rover – an integrated camera system that precisely captures 360-degree digital panoramas for efficient visual documentation and measurement of the surrounding environment that can be transformed into data-rich geospatial deliverables.
Information on the Trimble / Microsoft collaboration, as well as a video of the Build Conference demonstration and another concept video, are available on the Trimble Web site.
Trimble’s HoloLens-enabled solutions are currently under development. Information on Trimble’s broad range of existing solutions for the design, construction and operation of buildings and infrastructure is available on the company’s Construction and Operations Web page.
