STRUCT-AR

Functionality & Mechanism

STRUCT-AR leverages mobile augmented reality (AR) to visualize structural behavior. The system utilizes pre-loaded finite element models, which are superimposed onto the user's physical environment via the device camera. The interface facilitates immersive, three-dimensional exploration of how structural components react to applied loads from multiple angles. This process bypasses the need for manual specification of material properties, meshing, or boundary conditions, allowing for direct interaction with pre-configured engineering scenarios.

Evidence & Research Context

• The application's design and pedagogical rationale are detailed in a case study evaluating its use in an undergraduate structural design course.
• This pilot evaluation was designed to assess student engagement and perceived usefulness via the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM).
• The study context involves third-year undergraduate civil engineering students interacting with models of steel beam elements under point loads.
• The stated research goal is to investigate AR's potential to supplement traditional 2D instruction and improve comprehension of structural mechanisms.

Intended Use & Scope

This application is intended for engineering educators and undergraduate students as a complementary pedagogical tool. Its primary utility is to supplement traditional instruction by providing interactive, three-dimensional visualization of structural behaviors. The system does not function as a design or analysis tool and relies on pre-loaded models, not real-time calculation.