Since the first industrial revolution, the world has taken great strides towards efficient production systems and improved working conditions with the integration of emerging technologies. As we step into Industry 4.0, we’re witnessing the next stage of technological evolution with the dawn of the internet of things (IoT), machine learning, artificial intelligence (AI), spatial computing, and much more.
However, there is one technology that has spread like wildfire among the industrial community—augmented reality (AR).
How AR contributes to innovative manufacturing
The manufacturing sector is a well-oiled machine, run by the meticulous organization of intricate processes, spanning from design to distribution of a product. Post-COVID, businesses are keen to adopt new technologies like AR to streamline these processes for increased throughput while staying ahead of the competition. Let's explore the ways in which AR enhances manufacturing efficiency.
1. Collaborative research and design
Researchers and designers go through many brainstorming sessions to generate ideas, understand technical and market feasibility, and create the optimum product design. If these teams are located in distant facilities or regions, it can take quite some time to schedule and travel for every session.
With AR, team members can connect virtually and interact with 3D models and prototypes in real time, regardless of their physical location. It allows participants to view the physical world in a shared space, place virtual components onto them through their devices, and discuss changes as if they were in the same room.
2. Hands-on assembly training
Quick and error-free assembly processes are vital for rolling out maximum production. Technicians are constantly on the move to bring a product to life while following all safety standards and ensuring that the assembly line runs smoothly. New recruits need a lot of training before deployment into such time-sensitive and rigorous processes, which can lead to resource gaps in assembly lines and delays in production.
Equipped with AR software, trainees can get hands-on assembly training without disrupting the workflow of their colleagues. They can get visual instructions from their supervisor and document the results for later evaluation.
3. Instant troubleshooting and maintenance
Every piece of equipment in a manufacturing plant contributes to the smooth flow of the production process, and that's why maintenance is a never-ending task. However, issues that arise outside of the maintenance schedule or in constant moving parts, such as transport vehicles and automated tools, can decrease production efficiency and impact overall throughput.
This kind of situation can be immediately handled by onsite workers with the help of AR. Using AR live streaming, maintenance staff can see what the on-site workers are seeing and use spatial markers to provide step-by-step guidance in an augmented reality space.
4. Live inspection and quality audit
Assembly supervisors often go to great lengths to ensure the quality standards of the production process. They conduct rounds throughout the shop floor, inspecting materials and assembled components, and giving feedback and insights to their crew for optimized workflows.
Compared to this conventional method, live inspection through AR can significantly reduce their inspection time, covering more area of the shop floor than ever before. They can inspect many workstations at once and capture information in the form of text, images, or recordings for their reports.
Wrapping up
AR technology has become an invaluable tool in today's competitive landscape because of its ability to enhance visualization, improve precision, and facilitate collaboration. As AR technology continues to evolve, its integration into the manufacturing process will become even more seamless, driving innovation and efficiency across the industry.
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