How Can Augmented Reality Transform the Manufacturing Business?
Today, manufacturing companies, managers, and owners should know the value of innovation for their business. Technology plays a significant role in manufacturing, automation, and digitalization. However, many manufacturers are tentative about the adoption of the latest trends. In this article, draw your attention to augmented reality and how manufacturing businesses can make use of this innovative technology.
What is augmented reality?
Augmented reality, or AR, can be defined as a space between reality and virtuality. Augmented reality can project any digital information including images, video, graphics, etc. on the screen of any device.
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Augmented reality software solutions are successfully used in manufacturing companies for process automation, marketing, and customer service.
Devices for augmented reality
Augmented reality devices include:
- stationary systems with high-resolution cameras which are more realistic but less dynamic;
- projection systems which project an image to any surface and doesn’t require a separate screen;
- augmented reality glasses which allows you to see virtual objects on top of the real world;
- augmented reality lenses which are still under research and development;
- portable devices like smartphones and tablets with high-resolution cameras, the cheapest way to touching the technology.
Where can AR apps be successfully used?
Existing solutions span across various spheres, starting from process automation and performance improvement to staff training and safety control.
For example, augmented reality software helps workers get quick access to specifications. Information can be presented as a 3D-model, video, audio, photo, or animation. Such an approach helps level down the requirements for employees and reduces the time spent on training and studying instructions. Even more, the system is able to recognize details and even give recommendations on how to fix a problem.
Opportunities to transform manufacturing
Augmented reality can spread beyond the needs of in-house manufacturing to the creation of unique goods. Many products require a thorough level of understanding, such as electric service panels, generators, cars, or IKEA furniture. With augmented reality, the manufacturer can add interactive user help, with a smartphone or tablet. The app will show users how to use the item, reducing multiple mistakes in its setup and increase customer satisfaction.
A great example of such a solution is the BMW app for car services and repairs. Right after its launch, the media reported the end of the maintenance station era, as drivers received the opportunity to detect and fix defects in their car. With the help of augmented reality, the user is able to see step-by-step instructions on how to diagnose and fix any detail and which tools are required to do so.
Some well-known companies, like P&G, managed to increase their revenue considerably by implementing augmented reality apps at the right time.
A lot of manufacturers face strict limitations of tenders where they need to lower their profit interest. If you manage to convince your customer into acquiring an augmented reality app, the manufacturer will have a competitive advantage and increase their chances to win.
We hope you found this post presented to you by Elinext as entertaining and informative as we did!
