AR in machine manufacturing

AUGMENTED REALITY is a technology where computer-generated images are added to a living environment, which allows the user to analyse the real-world situation in more detail. In AR, digital images and graphics intersect with the real world and the person wearing an AR-headset can interact by drag and dropping items. After receiving input from the devices, the AR application recognises the target, processes the image and adds photos, video and audio to create an illusion that engages users in a virtual world.

In manufacturing, augmented reality can be used for different purposes, such as remote assistance, identifying unsafe working conditions and measuring a variety of changes. Text, stats and images can be presented as digital aspects in the real world. A machine manufacturer or customer can view a machine or other piece of equipment and see its running temperature, amount of items produced, errors and many other metrics.

AR is an extra layer on top of standard remote access. When the operator puts on an augmented reality headset (such as Microsoft Hololens and Magic Leap One), the machine builder or engineer can see exactly what the customer or his colleague sees in real time without being on site and log into the machine via a safe VPN connection to see what’s happening in the machine.

They can provide targeted feedback and give instructions via text, audio, video or by sharing documents such as a manual. The customer or colleague with the AR headset has their hands free to repair and change things in the machine or even to commission machines.

Additionally, augmented reality can be perfectly used for training purposes in manufacturing. It brings training onto the plant floor and decreases training time up to 50%. Training modules have to be recorded once and help manufacturers learn how they can complete their tasks using an AR headset. It mainly helps with tasks that are too complex to explain with a text or video.

Differences between virtual, augmented & mixed reality

You might ask yourself what the difference is between virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR) and mixed reality (MR). VR provides you simulated reality to the exclusion of actual surroundings while AR keeps the real world central and layers computer generated enhancements over it. This makes AR much more useful in the manufacturing industry than VR.

MR, however, is the most useful, since it brings together VR and AR. It stands out because of its highly interactive aspect with realistic 3D images appearing in the real world. When your headset is on, you can use your own hands to interact with and manipulate both physical and virtual objects through next-generation sensing.

The benefits of augmented reality

AR brings several advantages for machine builders, such as the ability to remotely assist customers and to build a stronger relationship with your customers.

No misunderstandings or miscommunications - You don’t have to worry anymore that text and pictures are not correctly interpreted, since people using AR are being trained and guided by virtual overlays of what they have to do on top of reality. Even when they are not technically skilled, they are able to fix machines with assistance via an AR headset.

Faster troubleshooting - With augmented reality, organisations can quickly respond to faults or malfunctions, since they can give instructions to the person at the machine’s site. Since everything is visualised, it’s easier to understand what needs to happen. Simultaneously, they reduce travel time and costs for the engineer that normally had to come over to fix the problem on-site.

Building a stronger customer relationship - The use of AR can help you build a stronger relationship with your customers since you’re no longer only offering products but you’re also partnering to help solve their problems. The engineer no longer has to travel so it saves a lot of time and more customers can be served in a short time. At the same time, customers get more efficient manufacturing processes.

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