A Review of Mixed Reality Applications in the Built Environment  Using a Task–Technology–Context Framework

Saddam Hussain Khurram; Zia Ud Din; Shengjun Miao; Khurram Iqbal Ahmad Khan; Aboubakar Siddique; Naheed Akhtar; Xiangfan Shang

doi:10.46604/ijeti.2026.16277

Authors

Saddam Hussain Khurram School of Resources and Safety Engineering, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing, China
Zia Ud Din College of Technology, University of Houston, Texas, USA
Shengjun Miao School of Resources and Safety Engineering, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing, China
Khurram Iqbal Ahmad Khan School of Civil and Environmental Engineering, National University of Science and Technology, Islamabad, Pakistan
Aboubakar Siddique School of Resources and Safety Engineering, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing, China
Naheed Akhtar Department of Civil Engineering, Polo-II, 3030- 790 University of Coimbra, Portugal
Xiangfan Shang China Academy of Safety Science and Technology, Beijing, China

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.46604/ijeti.2026.16277

Keywords:

mixed reality, built environment, project lifecycle, analytical review, task–technology–context

Abstract

Mixed reality (MR) technologies are increasingly used in the built environment to support visualization, coordination, and task execution across project stages. However, there is limited systematic understanding of the relationships among task demands, technology platforms, and implementation contexts throughout the project lifecycle. This paper aims to present a systematic analytical review of 68 peer-reviewed studies using a task-technology-context (TTC) framework. MR applications are classified by lifecycle stages, task attributes, technology platforms, and evaluation environments. The findings reveal a strong focus on construction-phase operations and well-defined associations between task types and technology selection. Most studies were conducted in controlled environments, highlighting a gap between experimental validation and real-world implementation. The results show that MR effectiveness depends not only on technological capability but also on its alignment with task requirements and contextual factors. The TTC framework provides a structured approach for evaluating MR adoption and guiding future lifecycle- and context-based research.

References

F. Barbosa, J. Woetzel, and J. Mischke, “Reinventing Construction: A Route to Higher Productivity,” McKinsey Global Institute, Technical Report, 2017.

J. M. D. Delgado, L. Oyedele, P. Demian, and T. Beach, “A Research Agenda for Augmented and Virtual Reality in Architecture, Engineering and Construction,” Advanced Engineering Informatics, vol. 45, article no. 101122, 2020.

X. Li, W. Yi, H. L. Chi, X. Wang, and A. P. C. Chan, “A Critical Review of Virtual and Augmented Reality (VR/AR) Applications in Construction Safety,” Automation in Construction, vol. 86, pp. 150–162, 2018.

M. Noghabaei, A. Heydarian, V. Balali, and K. Han, “Trend Analysis on Adoption of Virtual and Augmented Reality in the Architecture, Engineering, and Construction Industry,” Data, vol. 5, no. 1, article no. 26, 2020.

P. E. D. Love, J. Zhou, and J. Matthews, “Project Controls for Electrical, Instrumentation and Control Systems: Enabling Role of Digital System Information Modelling,” Automation in Construction, vol. 103, pp. 202–212, 2019.

T. H. Lin, C. H. Liu, M. H. Tsai, and S. C. Kang, “Using Augmented Reality in a Multiscreen Environment for Construction Discussion,” Journal of Computing in Civil Engineering, vol. 29, no. 6, article no. 04014088, 2015.

X. Wang, M. J. Kim, P. E. D. Love, M. J. Kim, and S. C. Kang, “Augmented Reality in Built Environment: Classification and Implications for Future Research,” Automation in Construction, vol. 32, pp. 1–13, 2013.

B. Schiavi, V. Havard, K. Beddiar, and D. Baudry, “BIM Data Flow Architecture with AR/VR Technologies: Use Cases in Architecture, Engineering and Construction,” Automation in Construction, vol. 134, article no. 104054, 2022.

A. Sidani, F. M. Dinis, J. Duarte, L. Sanhudo, D. Calvetti, J. S. Baptista, et al., “Recent Tools and Techniques of BIM-Based Augmented Reality: A Systematic Review,” Journal of Building Engineering, vol. 42, article no. 102500, 2021.

H. Khorrami Shad, K. T. W. Yiu, R. Lovreglio, and Z. Feng, “State-of-the-Art Analysis of the Integration of Augmented Reality with Construction Technologies to Improve Construction Safety,” Smart and Sustainable Built Environment, vol. 13, no. 6, pp. 1434–1449, 2024.

I. B. Alkan and H. B. Basaga, “Augmented Reality Technologies in Construction Project Assembly Phases,” Automation in Construction, vol. 156, article no. 105107, 2023.

P. Dallasega, F. Schulze, and A. Revolti, “Augmented Reality to Overcome Visual Management Implementation Barriers in Construction: A MEP Case Study,” Construction Management and Economics, vol. 41, no. 3, pp. 232–255, 2023.

S. Khan, K. Panuwatwanich, and S. Usanavasin, “Integrating Building Information Modeling with Augmented Reality: Application and Empirical Assessment in Building Facility Management,” Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, vol. 31, no. 7, pp. 2809–2828, 2024.

X. Xie, Q. Lu, D. Rodenas-Herraiz, A. K. Parlikad, and J. M. Schooling, “Visualised Inspection System for Monitoring Environmental Anomalies during Daily Operation and Maintenance,” Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, vol. 27, no. 8, pp. 1835–1852, 2020.

D. Rajaratnam, D. M. L. P. Weerasinghe, M. Abeynayake, B. A. K. S. Perera, and J. J. Ochoa, “Potential Use of Augmented Reality in Pre-Contract Design Communication in Construction Projects,” Intelligent Buildings International, vol. 14, no. 6, pp. 661–678, 2022.

J. Chalhoub and S. K. Ayer, “Effect of Varying Task Attributes on Augmented Reality Aided Point Layout,” Journal of Information Technology in Construction, vol. 24, pp. 95–111, 2019.

H. L. Chi, M. K. Kim, K. Z. Liu, J. P. P. Thedja, J. Seo, and D. E. Lee, “Rebar Inspection Integrating Augmented Reality and Laser Scanning,” Automation in Construction, vol. 136, article no. 104183, 2022.

S. Hasanzadeh and J. M. de a Garza, “Productivity-Safety Model: Debunking the Myth of the Productivity-Safety Divide through a Mixed-Reality Residential Roofing Task,” Journal of Construction Engineering and Management, vol. 146, no. 11, article no. 04020124, 2020.

C. Kwiatek, M. Sharif, S. Li, C. Haas, and S. Walbridge, “Impact of Augmented Reality and Spatial Cognition on Assembly in Construction,” Automation in Construction, vol. 108, article no. 102935, 2019.

J. Ramos-Hurtado, F. Muñoz-La Rivera, J. Mora-Serrano, A. Deraemaeker, and I. Valero, “Proposal for the Deployment of an Augmented Reality Tool for Construction Safety Inspection,” Buildings, vol. 12, no. 4, article no. 500, 2022.

J. Chalhoub and S. K. Ayer, “Exploring the Performance of an Augmented Reality Application for Construction Layout Tasks,” Multimedia Tools and Applications, vol. 78, no. 24, pp. 35075–35098, 2019.

M. Foroughi Sabzevar, M. Gheisari, and L. J. Lo, “Improving Access to Design Information of Paper-Based Floor Plans Using Augmented Reality,” International Journal of Construction Education and Research, vol. 17, no. 2, pp. 178–198, 2021.

M. Foroughi Sabzevar, M. Gheisari, and L. J. Lo, “AR-QR Code for Improving Crew Access to Design and Construction Information,” Automation in Construction, vol. 154, article no. 105017, 2023.

F. Dai, A. Olorunfemi, W. Peng, D. Cao, and X. Luo, “Can Mixed Reality Enhance Safety Communication on Construction Sites? An Industry Perspective,” Safety Science, vol. 133, article no. 105009, 2021.

I. Jeelani, K. Han, and A. Albert, “Automating and Scaling Personalized Safety Training Using Eye-Tracking Data,” Automation in Construction, vol. 93, pp. 63–77, 2018.

S. Chung, C. S. Cho, J. Song, K. Lee, S. Lee, and S. Kwon, “Smart Facility Management System Based on Open BIM and Augmented Reality Technology,” Applied Sciences, vol. 11, no. 21, article no. 10283, 2021.

P. H. Diao and N. J. Shih, “BIM-Based AR Maintenance System (BARMS) as an Intelligent Instruction Platform for Complex Plumbing Facilities,” Applied Sciences, vol. 9, no. 8, article no. 1592, 2019.

D. C. Nguyen, T. Q. Nguyen, R. Jin, C. H. Jeon, and C. S. Shim, “BIM-Based Mixed-Reality Application for Bridge Inspection and Maintenance,” Construction Innovation, vol. 22, no. 3, pp. 487–503, 2022.

I. A. Khalek, J. M. Chalhoub, and S. K. Ayer, “Augmented Reality for Identifying Maintainability Concerns during Design,” Advances in Civil Engineering, vol. 2019, no. 1, article no. 8547928, 2019.

S. Biel, “Concept of Using the BIM Technology to Support the Defect Management Process,” Archives of Civil Engineering, vol. 67, no. 2, pp. 209–229, 2021.

A. Degani, W. B. Li, R. Sacks, and L. Ma, “An Automated System for Projection of Interior Construction Layouts,” IEEE Transactions on Automation Science and Engineering, vol. 16, no. 4, pp. 1825–1835, 2019.

V. Dudhee and V. Vukovic, “Building Information Model Visualisation in Augmented Reality,” in Digitalization in Construction, Routledge, pp. 75–92, 2023.

S. Fenais, S. T. Ariaratnam, S. K. Ayer, and N. Smilovsky, “Integrating Geographic Information Systems and Augmented Reality for Mapping Underground Utilities,” Infrastructures, vol. 4, no. 4, article no. 60, 2019.

L. Hou, H. L. Chi, W. Tarng, J. Chai, K. Panuwatwanich, and X. Wang, “A Framework of Innovative Learning for Skill Development in Complex Operational Tasks,” Automation in Construction, vol. 83, pp. 29–40, 2017.

P. Herbers and M. König, “Indoor Localization for Augmented Reality Devices Using BIM, Point Clouds, and Template Matching,” Applied Sciences, vol. 9, no. 20, article no. 4260, 2019.

A. H. Kyaw, A. H. Xu, G. Jahn, N. van den Berg, C. Newnham, and S. Zivkovic, “Augmented Reality for High Precision Fabrication of Glued Laminated Timber Beams,” Automation in Construction, vol. 152, article no. 104912, 2023.

W. Li, Y. Wang, H. Yang, Z. Ye, P. Li, Y. A. Liu, et al., “Development of a Mixed Reality Method for Underground Pipelines in Digital Mechanics Experiments,” Tunnelling and Underground Space Technology, vol. 132, article no. 104833, 2023.

M. K. Rohil and Y. Ashok, “Visualization of Urban Development 3D Layout Plans with Augmented Reality,” Results in Engineering, vol. 14, article no. 100447, 2022.

Q. T. T. Huong, P. L. Quang, and N. L. Hoai, “Applying BIM and Related Technologies for Maintenance and Quality Management of Construction Assets in Vietnam,” International Journal of Sustainable Construction Engineering and Technology, vol. 12, no. 5, pp. 125–135, 2021.

J. Zhang, X. Xia, R. Liu, and N. Li, “Enhancing Human Indoor Cognitive Map Development and Wayfinding Performance with Immersive Augmented Reality-Based Navigation Systems,” Advanced Engineering Informatics, vol. 50, article no. 101432, 2021.

A. Alvanchi, N. Didehvar, M. Jalilehvand, P. Adami, and S. Shahmir, “Semi-Augmented Reality, a Novel Approach to Improve Customer Safety in the Pre-Sale Process of Under Construction Buildings,” International Journal of Engineering, Transactions B: Applications, vol. 34, no. 10, pp. 2198–2205, 2021.

J. Chalhoub, S. K. Ayer, and K. H. McCord, “Augmented Reality to Enable Users to Identify Deviations for Model Reconciliation,” Buildings, vol. 11, no. 2, article no. 77, 2021.

S. Choi and J. S. Park, “Development of Augmented Reality System for Productivity Enhancement in Offshore Plant Construction,” Journal of Marine Science and Engineering, vol. 9, no. 2, article no. 209, 2021.

H. Kim, Z. Piao, S. Hahm, and Y. Lee, “Depicting a Landscape Architectural Installation Using Augmented Reality,” Journal of Digital Landscape Architecture, vol. 2022, no. 7, pp. 443–452, 2022.

F. Liu, T. Jonsson, and S. Seipel, “Evaluation of Augmented Reality-Based Building Diagnostics Using Third Person Perspective,” ISPRS International Journal of Geo-Information, vol. 9, no. 1, article no. 53, 2020.

H. Nassereddine, C. Schranz, M. Bou Hatoum, and H. Urban, “Mapping the Capabilities and Benefits of AR Construction Use-Cases: A Comprehensive Map,” Organization, Technology and Management in Construction: An International Journal, vol. 14, no. 1, pp. 2571–2582, 2022.

U. Riedlinger, F. Klein, M. Hill, C. Lambracht, S. Nieborowski, R. Holst, et al., “Evaluation of Mixed Reality Support for Bridge Inspectors Using BIM Data: Digital Prototype for a Manual Task with a Long-Lasting Tradition,” i-com, vol. 21, no. 2, pp. 253–267, 2022.

L. T. Tsai, H. L. Chi, T. H. Wu, and S. C. Kang, “AR-Based Automatic Pipeline Planning Coordination for On-Site Mechanical, Electrical and Plumbing System Conflict Resolution,” Automation in Construction, vol. 141, article no. 104400, 2022.

W. Wu, A. Sandoval, V. Gunji, S. K. Ayer, J. London, L. Perry, et al., “Comparing Traditional and Mixed Reality-Facilitated Apprenticeship Learning in a Wood-Frame Construction Lab,” Journal of Construction Engineering and Management, vol. 146, no. 12, article no. 04020139, 2020.

O. Alruwaythi and P. Goodrum, “A Difference in Perspective: Impact of Different Formats of Engineering Information and Spatial Cognition on Craft-Worker Eye-Gaze Patterns,” Journal of Construction Engineering and Management, vol. 145, no. 11, article no. 04019065, 2019.

S. Alsafouri and S. K. Ayer, “Leveraging Mobile Augmented Reality Devices for Enabling Specific Human Behaviors in Design and Constructability Review,” Advances in Civil Engineering, vol. 2019, no. 1, article no. 3951986, 2019.

H. Chen, L. Hou, S. Wu, G. Zhang, Y. Zou, S. Moon, et al., “Augmented Reality, Deep Learning and Vision-Language Query System for Construction Worker Safety,” Automation in Construction, vol. 157, article no. 105158, 2024.

J. Chen, Y. Fu, W. Lu, and Y. Pan, “Augmented Reality-Enabled Human-Robot Collaboration to Balance Construction Waste Sorting Efficiency and Occupational Safety and Health,” Journal of Environmental Management, vol. 348, article no. 119341, 2023.

K. El Ammari and A. Hammad, “Remote Interactive Collaboration in Facilities Management Using BIM-Based Mixed Reality,” Automation in Construction, vol. 107, article no. 102940, 2019.

H. S. Kim, S. K. Kim, A. Borrmann, and L. S. Kang, “Improvement of Realism of 4D Objects Using Augmented Reality Objects and Actual Images of a Construction Site,” KSCE Journal of Civil Engineering, vol. 22, no. 8, pp. 2735–2746, 2018.

R. E. Kassis, S. K. Ayer, M. E. Asmar, and P. Tang, “Discovering Factors that Influence the Use of Augmented Reality for Communication on Active Highway Construction Sites,” Transportation Research Record: Journal of the Transportation Research Board, vol. 2677, no. 5, pp. 376–389, 2023.

M. Lounakoski, J. Puhto, H. Jalo, O. Torro, and H. Pirkkalainen, “Social Extended Reality—Use Case Entities on Property Life Cycle,” Journal of Information Technology in Construction, vol. 27, pp. 512–528, 2022.

S. Meža, Ž. Turk, and M. Dolenc, “Measuring the Potential of Augmented Reality in Civil Engineering,” Advances in Engineering Software, vol. 90, pp. 1–10, 2015.

H. N. Rafsanjani and A. H. Nabizadeh, “Towards Digital Architecture, Engineering, and Construction (AEC) Industry through Virtual Design and Construction (VDC) and Digital Twin,” Energy and Built Environment, vol. 4, no. 2, pp. 169–178, 2023.

X. Zhao, M. Li, Z. Sun, Y. Zhao, Y. Gai, J. Wang, et al., “Intelligent Construction and Management of Landscapes through Building Information Modeling and Mixed Reality,” Applied Sciences, vol. 12, no. 14, article no. 7118, 2022.

S. Alsafouri and S. K. Ayer, “Mobile Augmented Reality to Influence Design and Constructability Review Sessions,” Journal of Architectural Engineering, vol. 25, no. 3, article no. 04019016, 2019.

J. Chalhoub and S. K. Ayer, “Using Mixed Reality for Electrical Construction Design Communication,” Automation in Construction, vol. 86, pp. 1–10, 2018.

Y. Qin, E. Bloomquist, T. Bulbul, J. Gabbard, and K. Tanous, “Impact of Information Display on Worker Performance for Wood Frame Wall Assembly Using AR HMD under Different Task Conditions,” Advanced Engineering Informatics, vol. 50, article no. 101423, 2021.

E. Stylianidis, E. Valari, A. Pagani, I. Carrillo, A. Kounoudes, K. Michail, et al., “Augmented Reality Geovisualisation for Underground Utilities,” PFG – Journal of Photogrammetry, Remote Sensing and Geoinformation Science, vol. 88, pp. 173-185, 2020.

S. Sabeti, O. Shoghli, M. Baharani, and H. Tabkhi, “Toward AI-Enabled Augmented Reality to Enhance the Safety of Highway Work Zones: Feasibility, Requirements, and Challenges,” Advanced Engineering Informatics, vol. 50, article no. 101429, 2021.

W. Li, Y. Wang, Z. Ye, Y. A. Liu, and L. Wang, “Development of a Mixed Reality Assisted Escape System for Underground Mine-Based on the Mine Water-Inrush Accident Background,” Tunnelling and Underground Space Technology, vol. 143, article no. 105471, 2024.

M. Sanei, X. Yuan, F. Moreu, and S. Alampalli, “Automated Geometric Quality Inspection of Rebar Layout Using RGBD Data,” Materials Evaluation, vol. 81, no. 1, pp. 46–55, 2023.

B. G. Hwang, J. Ngo, and J. Z. K. Teo, “Challenges and Strategies for the Adoption of Smart Technologies in the Construction Industry: The Case of Singapore,” Journal of Management in Engineering, vol. 38, no. 1, article no. 05021014, 2022.