HSI

Visualisation of underground pipelines in Augmented Reality

Developing a prototype to improve the 3D perception of buried pipelines using AR on mobile devices.

Initial situation

The digitalisation of the construction industry changes how projects are planned and verified. Building Information Modeling (BIM) enables structured documentation and easier visualisation. While AR is already established for above-ground elements, underground pipelines remain difficult to visualise for engineers and workers.

Problem statement / Project goal

Underground pipelines are hard to perceive in 3D space. Conventional AR techniques like semi-transparent ground views are insufficient, as pipes often appear to “float” without clear reference points. The project aims to create a concept and prototype for better AR visualisation, combining suitable rendering techniques (e.g. X-Ray, shadow view, grid overlays) with user interaction

Real vs. virtual utility markings

Real and virtual utility markings
Virtual pavement markings can communicate utility positions similarly to field paint for site orientation.
Source: subsurface utilities visualization literature (see review below).

Transparent (ghosted) view

Transparent ground showing pipe
Semi-transparent ground reveals hidden assets while preserving context.
Source: AR visualization methods for subsurface utilities review.

X-ray / cutaway trench

X-ray trench showing pipe
Cutaway “x-ray” views expose the trench volume and pipe alignment for clash checking.
Source: AR visualization methods for subsurface utilities review.

Shadows & drop-lines

Drop-lines from surface to pipe
Surface drop-lines and shadows tie underground geometry back to the road plane for easier depth reading.
Source: AR visualization methods for subsurface utilities review.

Prototype

AR Prototype
The prototype combines the X-ray approach with a grid that makes the floor more visible. To see the difference in perception, the individual components can be switched on and off.
Source: project brief and our implementation.

Solution developed and its benefits

The prototype demonstrates a simple AR approach to visualise underground pipelines. A virtual trench frame and a semi-transparent pipe representation help users to perceive the location and depth of subsurface infrastructure. This offers several benefits:

  • Clearer spatial understanding of pipeline position and depth
  • Reduced uncertainty when interpreting underground layouts
  • Improved communication of design ideas and safety aspects
  • Easy deployment on common mobile devices (smartphone or tablet)
  • Augmented Reality Overlaying digital content on real world
  • BIM Building Information Modeling
  • X-Ray View Semi-transparent ground for buried utilities
  • Grid Overlay Visual depth reference
  • Unity Development platform

Costumer

City of Zürich

Team

Project by: Michelle Wächter

Advisor:

Arzu Cöltekin

Elif Gurcinar

Andreas Manuel Leu