Manufacturing companies are increasingly adopting AR and VR to breakdown technological barriers and increase worker participation. AR is a way for manufacturers to visualize their processes, optimize workflows, and cost-effectively bridge the gap between digital and physical design. This blog will explore the many uses of augmented reality in manufacturing – from reducing ergonomic risks to eliminating design waste. Keep reading to learn more about how this technology can help you streamline your processes with less waste.
What is augmented Reality?
AR is a technology that creates a layer of digital information over the physical world. In its most basic form, an AR system projects relevant data onto an object, like a sheet of paper or a sheet of wood. In order to be seen by a person, AR requests that the person use a device that “scans” the object and identifies what it is. For example, if the AR system is overlaid on a sheet of paper, it will recognize that the paper is present and then display relevant data on top of the paper. AR’s most popular application is in the visual merchandising space. Retailers are using AR to overlay digital images to create virtual shelves that let customers try clothes on in the comfort of their own homes. AR is also widely used for the industrial design and visualisation markets. Auto manufacturers are using AR to overlay CAD models to show how their cars will look from different angles. Industrial designers use AR to show how products will look from different angles, or how they will function in real-life environments. Check: https://nsflow.com/industries/augmented-reality-in-manufacturing-industry
Augmented Reality in Manufacturing: Reducing ergonomic risks
Ergonomics is the discipline of improving the safety and efficiency of production work environments through the use of engineering analysis, design, and control systems. Manufacturing works with high-risk activities and tools, such as automated production equipment. An AR system that visualises those tools could help inspectors to see potential hazards, avoid them, and stay safe while maintaining production schedule. For example, an AR system could overlay the area where a machine is located with a map of the machine’s toolpath to show inspectors where they should be, and what they should look for. This can also help factories that use manual processes with high risks of injury. AR could be used to overlay a 3D model of the work area with a map of all the potential hazards, such as sharp edges or dangerous material. This can help inspectors to find and avoid potential injuries before they happen.
Virtual Reality in Manufacturing: Eliminating design waste
Virtual reality has been used in computer graphics for decades, but now its availability and affordability has changed the setting for VR in manufacturing. VR systems are now more affordable, and once a VR system is purchased, it’s easy to use it on a regular basis. This means that VR is not a new technology for manufacturers, but an effective way to eliminate design waste. VR systems can be used to eliminate design waste at every stage of the design process. During the design phase, VR systems can be used to create virtual prototypes or 3D models that eliminate iterations and costly prototyping. VR can also be used to eliminate design waste at the engineering stage by allowing engineers to create virtual models of machines, tools, and workflows. In this way, manufacturers can eliminate the costs of traditional 2D CAD model creation and reduce engineering work.
How augmented reality can help manufacturing companies work smarter?
Augmented reality is a technology that creates a layer of digital information over the physical world. In its most basic form, an AR system projects relevant data onto an object, like a sheet of paper or a sheet of wood. In order to be seen by a person, AR requests that the person use a device that “scans” the object and identifies what it is. For example, if the AR system is overlaid on a sheet of paper, it will recognize that the paper is present and then display relevant data on top of the paper. AR’s most popular application is in the visual merchandising space. Retailers are using AR to overlay digital images to create virtual shelves that let customers try clothes on in the comfort of their own homes. This allows shoppers to feel the texture of clothing before they put it up inside their closets. AR is also widely used for the industrial design and visualisation markets. Auto manufacturers are using AR to overlay CAD models to show how their cars will look from different angles. Industrial designers use AR to show how products will look from different angles, or how they will function in real-life environments.
5 Ways AR Helps Manufacturing Companies Work Smarter
Automated workflows – In manufacturing, the most time-consuming work is the movement of materials through a production line. With the use of AR tech, you can create a virtual model of an area where you work, allowing you to see where you are walking and what you have to work with. This helps to keep you safe on the job and it also helps you to reduce the amount of time you spend walking, which means you can spend more time doing the work you love. Visualisation – When you can see something, it’s easier to understand and it’s easier to control. When engineers are designing with virtual models, they can see how their designs fit together and how the machine functions. With the use of AR tech, you can overlay relevant information onto physical objects and make them visible to engineers. This can reduce the amount of calculations engineers need to do and increase the amount of time they spend designing. Cost savings – When you can see something, it’s easier to understand, and it’s easier to control. With the use of AR tech, you can overlay relevant information onto physical objects and make them visible to engineers, reducing the amount of calculations engineers need to do and increasing the amount of time they spend designing. Improved quality – When you can see something, it’s easier to understand and it’s easier to control. With the use of AR tech, you can overlay relevant information onto physical objects and make them visible to engineers, reducing the amount of calculations engineers need to do and increasing the amount of time they spend designing.
