The hard hat and the hand-held : communication with hand-held computing in the construction process

Abstract

Computer hand-held devices have the potential to revolutionize the methods of communication in the construction process. The compelling feature of hand-held computers is their ability to integrate GPS, video cameras, magnetometers and other sensors with an array of construction-relevant data layers in a highly portable form factor. This technology has the capacity to locate people in space, give them information relevant to who they are and where they are as well as allow them to input information into the system on the go. Through extensive research and interviews conducted with architects, construction managers and foremen, this thesis will assess problems inherent in the construction process and propose a new vision for methods of communication. This vision will be expressed through the design of a new hand-held application prototype.