Event
ASCE Seattle Section Geotechnical Group - 23 January 2020
Understanding:leveraging Augmented Reality
Presenter:
Joan Roca, M.Sc. P.Eng.(BC, NT/NU)
Senior Geotechnical/Geological Engineer
BGC Engineering Inc., Vancouver, BC. Canada
ABSTRACT
Robust and effective outcomes for geotechnical projects emerge when the design is based on a thorough understanding of the geology and the environment, as well as the interaction of these systems over time. Traditionally, a significant challenge faced by geo-professionals is our ability to observe, interpret, understand and visualize the physical environment, particularly as it applies to changes over time, and the effect of those changes on the as-built environment. To address this challenge, at BGC Engineering Inc. we now bring complex projects to life via a cloud-based platform that quickly and easily converts information and data (traditionally presented on flat screens or reported as 2D drawings) into true 3D holographic visualizations. This 3D holographic visualization platform actually allows participants to experience four-dimentional data (including changes over time) at scales ranging from high level overviews to 1:1 boots on the ground viewpoints. Visualizing this data in a more natural way through this platform provides expert and non-expert project participants with an unprecedented view of a projects scope, scale and technical details, allowing them to participate in meaningful collaboration on the data and gain common understanding. Environments can be animated and presented at life-sized scales to immerse the user in a project, from anywhere in the world. Furthermore, users can share and collaborate on the same 3D model by using multiple devices to explore the 3D model together, using mixed media headsets (augmented reality).
Holographic visualization allows people to interact with, and control their experience, which facilitates the generation of a deeper understanding of 3D environments and their changes over time. This is especially important for comprehension among technically diverse project teams and external stakeholders. Holographic visualization enables clearer communication and more confident decision making. It also helps identify, anticipate, and mitigate challenges earlier within the project lifecycle by providing a visualization of the site in 3D, either on a boardroom table or by placing participants in the landscape using mixed media headsets. It creates a shared vision, and a common reality that allows meaningful input and decisions to be made based on science, facts and evidence.
This talk will explore how 3D holographic techniques are impacting surface and subsurface geological data visualization through case studies. The main focus will be on two high-impact use cases. The first will show the ability to bring together technical experts and senior decision makers using a medium that is understood by everyone: 3D objects projected in physical space. This allows people to connect with the data and information in a natural way, allowing time and energy to be used to talk through the problem, not interpreting 2D drawings and maps. The second will show the ability to present and discuss a project plan to non-technical stakeholders and allow them to engage with the information and develop a deeper understanding than would be traditionally possible using 2D drawings and maps. Both examples demonstrate the powerful nature of this medium for communication.
PRESENTER BIO
Mr. Roca was born and raised in Barcelona, Spain, where he finished his Master of Science in geotechnical engineering at the Polytechnic University of Catalunya (UPC) and the University of Barcelona (UB). After working as a geotechnical engineer in Europe, Mr. Roca moved to Canada in 2012 to join BGC Engineering Inc. in Vancouver as a full time employee.
Mr. Roca has a background in applying the principles of geotechnical engineering to the design and construction of large civil and mining projects in Europe, Canada and Latin America, including container terminals, highways, railways and dams. He has been involved in the setting, planning, design, tender, execution, operations and closure of projects, including the preparation/negotiation of contractual documents and technical specifications, project management, construction management and field verification. He has experience in earthworks, pavements, land reclamation, consolidation, deep and shallow foundations, drainage, concrete structures, industrial buildings, site characterization investigations, instrumentation and more. Some of the key projects in which Mr. Roca has been involved include the design and construction of the BEST container terminal in Barcelona (Spain), the construction of the A21 Dike at the Diavik Diamond Mine in the North West Territories (Canada), and the investigation into the failure of the Muelle Prat gravity harbor wall in Barcelona (Spain).
When he is not sailing, biking, running or swimming, Joan is spending time with his wife Jan and his 6 month old daughter Isabel. He is also passionate about AcroYoga and photogrammetry.
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LocationExecutive Inn by the Space Needle (View)
200 Taylor Ave N.
Seattle, WA 98109
United States
Categories
| Kid Friendly: No |
| Dog Friendly: No |
| Non-Smoking: Yes! |
| Wheelchair Accessible: Yes! |
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