Augmented Reality Solutions for Manufacturing
Whether you’re training new workers or delivering step-by-step work instructions, augmented reality solutions for manufacturing can make the entire process faster and more efficient.
Traditionally, workers would need to consult paper schematics before repairing equipment, but AR superimposes the plans on the machine so they can see them virtually before them.
Safety Training
In the manufacturing industry, it is essential to train new employees on how to operate machinery safely. In addition, safety training is an important component of employee morale and can be a valuable tool for keeping your workforce healthy.
Augmented reality solutions allow for a range of training activities. From a simple hazard awareness activity, to an advanced simulation of hazardous waste flow, AR-based training is easy to deploy and offers a safe way to teach trainees about potential risks that could be encountered on the job.
For example, if a worker is training on how to install a pipe into a manhole, AR allows them to locate manholes around the facility and place the pipe inside. They can then see the placement of the pipe in 3D space and learn about the type of connection, pipe size and more.
Using AR as part of a training program can cut down on the cost of safety training. Traditional classroom-based training requires specialist staff and materials, which can be expensive.
Another benefit of AR-based safety training is that it is mobile and can be accessed from any device. This is especially helpful when you have a remote workforce or are working across multiple locations.
In addition to helping workers feel safer, AR-based safety training can also help with compliance, as it can help you track what your employees are learning and what their knowledge is, which can be useful for auditing and documentation. Moreover, it can be integrated with other processes in the workplace to make them easier to access and manage. Ultimately, this will save your business money in the long run.
Product Design
Product design is a process that involves creating a new product or service for sale. It is a crucial aspect of manufacturing as it impacts everything from the look and feel of a product to its performance.
Augmented reality can be used in several ways to optimize the product design process. For instance, augmented reality can be used to create 3D models and virtual prototypes that can be used to test the effectiveness of a product before putting it into production.
Another use of AR is to help technicians understand and perform routine equipment maintenance. This can reduce downtime and improve productivity by preventing mistakes during routine procedures.
Using AR technology, technicians can use sequential instructions to follow to ensure that they are performing each step correctly. This makes the entire process much quicker and easier, resulting in reduced operating costs.
In addition, technicians can also use AR to identify and track assets in real-time. This helps them to quickly identify spare parts needed and keep up with the machine’s maintenance history.
Additionally, manufacturers can use AR to display additional data and context about a component or machine. This can include information on its size, material properties, and other details.
Unlike virtual reality, which puts the user in an immersive environment with headsets, augmented reality places computer-generated information side by side with the augmented reality solutions for manufacturing physical world. This allows users to interact with the two simultaneously, making it an excellent choice for Industry 4.0.
Product Demonstration
There are a number of ways that augmented reality solutions for manufacturing can be used to demonstrate products. One way is by enabling remote employees to view and interact with the product in real time. Another way is to allow engineers and designers to view 3D models of the product as it is being designed.
AR can also be used for training new workers. It can provide simulations and hands-on techniques for learning the basics of operating machinery.
In addition, AR can provide detailed instructions for maintenance and repair tasks. This can reduce mistakes and save workers time and money.
For example, a company could use an AR headset to show a technician the details of how to disassemble a car engine. The technician can then follow the steps in order to get the job done right.
This could reduce downtime and ensure the customer gets their vehicle repaired on time. Moreover, it could help with collaborative problem-solving.
Companies like Dassault Systemes and Lockheed Martin have integrated AR into their manufacturing processes to improve workflow and efficiency. Using AR, engineers and technicians can identify potential issues that might disrupt production and alert management about them before they occur.
In order to use augmented reality in the manufacturing industry, manufacturers must first identify specific use cases. This is a necessary step for creating unique software solutions. It involves evaluating current technological and operational procedures to identify which processes can be automated or improved with the aid of AR technology.
Product Inspection
Product inspections are a critical part of the manufacturing process. They help manufacturers ensure the quality of their products and avoid issues with production and shipping. They also allow manufacturers to make adjustments to their processes if needed.
Depending on the type of product, inspectors might conduct visual inspections or physical tests to check for defects and errors. They may also use augmented reality to enhance their ability to identify flaws in the product.
In addition to identifying defects, they can also collect information about the process and create reports that help them analyze the process. These reports can be sent to managers or employees and shared with the company’s stakeholders.
Augmented reality can also improve the efficiency of product inspections by reducing travel time between the factory and the site of inspection. This can help save a lot of money and time in the long run.
AR software can also be used to standardize and digitize work instructions, making it easier for workers to manufacture or assemble products. This can also improve process flow and reduce the number of errors.
With digitized work instructions, workers can view step-by-step instructions right in their field of view. This ensures that the steps are followed exactly.
For example, if the worker has to drill holes in a part or machine slots, the instructions can be accessed and verified with no-fault forward steps. This can significantly reduce errors and ensure that the products meet their intended specifications.
Using augmented reality for product inspection is an effective way to ensure that all products are of high quality. It can help companies avoid costly issues with their production and shipping process. In addition, it can increase safety in the workplace by allowing workers to receive real-time information about risks.
Customer Service
Customer service is a huge part of augmented reality solutions for manufacturing, both before and after a sale. It’s not just about answering a few questions or solving a problem; it’s also about helping people get the most out of your products, whether that’s teaching them how to use them or giving them a helpful tip.
For example, DHL uses AR to help warehouse employees locate items faster. Workers can add detailed instructions and barcodes to physical items, allowing them to see the item they need without having to search for it manually.
Augmented reality is also used to augmented reality solutions for manufacturing improve safety training for factory employees. It uses immersive environments to walk employees through potentially hazardous scenarios and gives them real-time reactions like visual warnings or audio prompts if they don’t follow the proper safety protocol.
Another common use case for AR in manufacturing is product design and assessment. It allows a user to view different build options for a particular product, allowing them to choose one that works best for them.
Many companies also offer a specialized AR-based product configurator, which lets customers tinker with dozens of build options for a single item before they make a decision. This helps production companies showcase their full line of products and allow customers to make a more informed purchase, resulting in increased sales.
Customer service is an essential part of any business, and it’s becoming increasingly important to provide efficient service. Keeping customer support agents in the loop of incoming inquiries and letting them jump right in can save time and make the experience more personal. It can also lead to higher satisfaction and loyalty.
