Overview
MINERVA: Mixed Reality System for Real-Time Construction Problem Resolution (2018-450-008)
GD-Electric Boat
GD-Bath Iron Works
GD-Mission Systems
GD-Applied Physical Sciences
D’Angelo Technologies
ESI North America
Navatek LTD
April 2019 – December 2020
INDUSTRY INVESTMENT: $1.7M | NSRP ASE INVESTMENT $1.7M
OBJECTIVE
The MINERVA project applied an innovative combination of Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR) technology to produce a Mixed Reality (MR) tool that will provide real-time resolution of construction problems. The goal of the project was to make a step reduction in construction costs for CLB class submarine (and similar ship programs) by making an appreciable reduction in the construction span time. This project provided the capability to establish real-time video and audio connections from the deck plates to the engineering office and to provide resolutions, both static and dynamic, from engineering back to the deck plates via AR, VR and CAD techniques. The system can also be used to capture the ‘lessons learned’ graphically from the MR collaborations.
SUMMARY
The scope of this project entailed the use of AR, VR, and MR technologies to substantially improve the process of resolving construction problems in real time. This process is part of the broader process known as the change process. The change process consists of two phases – Change Request (CR) and Change Notice (CN). In the CR phase, changes are proposed, technically evaluated, prioritized and solutions formulated and approved. In the CN phase, the formulated solutions are executed. MINERVA seeks to take time out of the CR phase by addressing build-side changes, changes that emerge during the build process when an unanticipated construction issue or improvement opportunity arises. MINERVA is focused on the assessment, approval and solution description steps.
This project addressed two specific use cases related to construction problem resolutions. In the first use case the problem arises during the course of construction. In the second the problem arises during the course of acceptance testing. In both cases, the workers on the deck plates seek real-time direction on how to proceed.
The Final Report is available to U.S. commercial and government shipyards.
POINT OF CONTACT: Dr. Thomas Rando | General Dynamics – Electric Boat | [email protected]