PlanRadar has unveiled its SiteView feature, designed to enhance documentation and efficiency in the construction industry. Announced on December 2, 2024, SiteView captures 360° imagery of construction sites and maps it onto a 2D plan, providing a comprehensive visual record of project activities.
This advancement leverages SLAM (Simultaneous Localization and Mapping) technology, which is commonly used in robotics and autonomous vehicles to navigate unfamiliar environments.
SLAM technology operates by simultaneously creating a map of an area while tracking the device's location within it. As the device moves, it collects data through sensors like cameras and lasers, allowing it to identify walls and objects, thereby constructing an accurate representation of the space. This real-time updating capability enables smooth navigation and efficient data capture.
The global SLAM market is experiencing rapid growth, driven by advancements in AI and sensor technology, with projections estimating it will reach USD 9.4 billion by 2030. In construction, SLAM has yet to be fully realised; traditionally, documentation involves manually taking hundreds of photos to track progress.
PlanRadar's SiteView aims to streamline this process by allowing users to walk through a site with a camera-equipped helmet, automatically aligning images with the site plan using AI algorithms.
This feature significantly enhances PlanRadar's documentation capabilities by facilitating efficient condition surveys and enabling clear comparisons of project milestones. As Avtandil Mekudishvili, regional lead for ASEAN at PlanRadar, stated, “SiteView enhances the powerful documentation capabilities we already offer... delivering sophisticated visual documentation for full transparency.”
The ability to view "behind the wall" helps reduce costly rework—estimated at an average of 11% of total project costs—by providing precise visual records.Moreover, SiteView fosters collaboration by offering remote access to real-time updates, allowing stakeholders to conduct faster reviews without needing to visit the site.
This transparency is crucial for keeping clients informed throughout the project lifecycle.Looking ahead, SiteView is currently available to PlanRadar's customers with plans for further enhancements based on user feedback. Future updates may include interactive features such as markups and measurement capabilities, signalling PlanRadar's commitment to continuous innovation in construction management.
