Intuitive operation of machinery and devices with augmented reality
Infrastructure projects, along with devices and machinery in transport technology, are highly complex – something the InnoTrans trade fair, the world's leading show for infrastructure and transport, once again demonstrated this year. Immersive technologies like augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) can be used to visualise large volumes of data, train staff, and support service and maintenance – making information easier to convey and processes more efficient.
There's already a wide range of possible use cases for immersive technologies in the transport and logistics industry:
- Visualising complex topics and processes (using virtual, mixed and augmented reality)
- AR guides and explanations for devices and machinery
- Training and supporting staff
- Optimising service and maintenance
Visualising complex topics and processes with immersive technologies
Especially when planning major projects and new infrastructure systems, immersive technologies can support visualisation, scenario planning and practical testing even before anything is actually built. In virtual reality (VR), or by overlaying models with augmented and mixed reality technology, even complex subjects become tangible:
- Spatial visualisation of data flows
- Adding an extra layer of information to physical 2D/3D models (via augmented reality overlays)
- Visualising visitor flows in mixed reality applications for better project planning
- Visualising how control systems and sensors work, to illustrate smart networks and interconnectivity
Large machines and components – such as trains, buildings, machinery, tracks, overhead lines and so on – are immobile and highly complex. Immersive technologies make even the most multi-layered products, machines and plants accessible and tangible. With augmented reality, realistic product models can be placed right into the "real" world. That means even large products and elements are always right there with you, on your smartphone or tablet.
Other applications include:
- Interactive layer models (explaining technology and internal processes)
- Real-time visualisation of machine data
- Using virtual product models for training purposes
- Enhancing the "real" product with information and process data
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Training staff with virtual reality and supporting them with augmented reality
Immersive VR training and AR assistance apps make it possible to train staff efficiently and with fewer resources. Standard situations, but also hazardous ones, can be safely trained for in virtual reality. In day-to-day use, AR applications provide targeted information and support – exactly when it's needed. A good example is intuitive step-by-step instructions: the action required is shown directly at the point where it needs to happen. Health-and-safety training or mandatory courses can also be delivered via immersive technologies regardless of location or time, saving on resources such as rooms, time and staff.
Optimising maintenance and service with AR – remotely too
Maintenance, upkeep and service have a major impact on smooth operations and the best possible safety for people and machinery in infrastructure applications. Augmented and mixed reality applications support efficient, flexible and future-proof approaches to maintenance. Service and troubleshooting support can be delivered remotely, streamlining the entire support process. Augmented reality applications help technicians and users carry out maintenance and upkeep correctly. Linked with management tools and the visualisation of machine data, this also enables smart, predictive maintenance in an Industry 4.0 context. Not least, optimised guidance and instruction for users (via an AR operating application, for example) is steadily reducing error rates.
Metaverse, VR, AR, Web3 – how can you actually benefit from the trend right now?
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What is augmented reality (AR)?
Augmented reality means exactly what it says: it augments the “real” world with computer-generated information and elements. One example would be an overlaid set of instructions for a piece of technical equipment.
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