Augmented Reality (AR) Moves Into Industrial Spaces
Learn about several companies specializing in industrial AR and utilizing simulation and automation to drive new AR technology.
Augmented reality (AR) is a unique technology, and several industrial companies are using it to transform the way they design, manufacture, and operate products. Applications in this field are even more varied, ranging from training recruits remotely to supporting collaborative projects and more.
Vera from ResonAI
ResonAI is a company specializing in artificial intelligence (AI) and AR applications. The company's Vera platform, launched in 2019, utilizes computer vision technologies to create intelligent digital twins of any building or physical space.
The digital version of these environments is fully navigable via smartphones and other AR-compatible devices, enabling several applications.
Building on almost three years of AR experimentation, ResonAI has now released The State of Augmented Reality in Facilities Management (FM) report.
A navigational mockup. Image courtesy of ResonAI.
The document claims FM is undergoing a substantial transformation thanks to AR technologies and a growing need for visitor-centric solutions, particularly during the pandemic. Critical AR applications in FM refer to streamline building operations, automate maintenance and repair processes, and facilitate health and safety requirements.
Among the main adopters of AR technologies are hospitals and medical facilities, followed by manufacturing facilities, educational facilities, and corporate offices. The report showed the main benefits of using AR, according to facilities managers, were the automation of maintenance processes and the prevention of maintenance issues.
Reduction of physical contact during the COVID-19 pandemic was also one of AR's benefits, creating new revenue opportunities and the insights derived from AR-based analytics.
Vuforia AR from PTC
American computer software company PTC and its Vuforia Enterprise AR platform is a more common platform for users who specialize in automation.
Vuforia is an AR content development solution designed to address various workforce challenges by offering different tools based on the cross-platform Vuforia Engine.
One of these tools is Vuforia Expert Capture, allowing companies to create their step-by-step AR instructions, while Vuforia Chalk will enable technicians and experts to provide remote assistance.
Vuforia Studio Enterprise. Image courtesy of Vuforia.
The Vuforia AR platform also offers a Studio mode designed to enable the creation of immersive AR experiences. This platform leverages existing 3D and IoT data and a Spatial Toolbox to speed-up the development of IoT, AR, and spatial computing prototypes.
Given their different areas of focus, the various tools belonging to the Vuforia platform enable several different applications. To know more about the Vuforia AR platform's applications and their impact on the automation industry, you can read the Forrester report.
RE'FLEKT AR Platform
RE'FLEKT is another company specializing in the development of augmented reality applications for enterprises.
The company's One platform is designed to provide maintenance, operations, and training support using visual guidance, real-time information, and remote collaboration.
RE'FLEKT demonstrating AR capabilities. Image courtesy of RE'FLEKT.
RE'FLEKT's mission is to "make industrial manufacturing, service, and training as easy as using a simple home appliance." The company allows the re-utilization of using 2D and 3D content, video, and other media to turn paper-based manuals into interactive guides.
RE'FLEKT currency counts over 100 global partners, including industry giants like ABB, Bosch, Siemens, and others. The One platform is compatible with Android, iOS, Windows, and Microsoft Hololens.
What are your thoughts about AR in the automation industry? Let us know your thoughts in the comment section down below.
