Accurate onsite georeferenced subsurface utility model visualisation

Abstract

Subsurface utilities, essential to our modern life, must be regularly maintained to ensure continued operation. Subsurface utility engineering would greatly benefit from augmented reality, which would provide workers with direct up to date information about the underground pipes. Unfortunately, while accuracy is very important for engineers, outdoor augmented reality cannot yet guarantee a constant and known level of accuracy. In this paper, we propose a system based on the use of a robotic total station that provides the user’s georeferenced position in real time. A tablet displays a 3D rendering of the subsurface utility network at the user’s location, enabling him to explore the network without having to carry paper plans and make measurements. The system highlights several potential advantages over classical measuring methods, as well as with augmented reality.