The digital transformation in the manufacturing industry is leading to more immersive and interactive working environments. Sophisticated technologies are being used to speed up processes, network field staff, increase safety aspects or conduct training courses, for example. An important area of digitalization is the use of augmented, virtual and assisted reality as well as edge computing solutions.

Assisted reality (AR) uses digital content and integrates it into real environments via smart wearables such as data glasses. Thanks to a built-in camera and connection to edge computing, certain situations or work steps can be recorded and made available to others live or recorded. AR and edge computing connect employees, experts and customers even without physical proximity. Especially in challenging times, such as those the global economy is currently still experiencing, such technologies can be crucial to a company's existence; they are therefore experiencing a surge in demand.

The amount of data generated by digital applications in companies is greater in almost every industry than in the manufacturing sector - and it continues to grow. New approaches are needed to process these volumes of data (in real time), interpret them correctly and incorporate them into business decisions in a meaningful way. Hardly any manufacturing company can do without edge computing.

Smart glasses - the perfect companion?

However, edge computing is only one component of assisted reality solutions. It only unfolds its full potential in combination with wearables such as smart glasses. The combination results in even more application scenarios that can make processes simpler, more efficient and more cost-effective. The mobility already provided by edge computing is further enhanced.

After all, hands-free working is possible with smart data glasses. Functions of AR smart glasses - such as opening and reading manuals - can be accessed anywhere and at any time without interrupting the employee's workflow. Smart data glasses can also use the AR function to transmit the wearer's field of vision to an end device. This makes it possible, for example, for an employee who has to make a safety or time-critical decision on site to connect with experts remotely. Experts can intervene from the comfort of their home or office and provide step-by-step instructions as if they were there themselves. There are three main areas of application in manufacturing:

1. remote support

One of the most important areas of application for smart glasses has already been mentioned: remote support. This involves a technician wearing intelligent AR glasses. What he sees through the glasses can also be seen live by an expert or trainer at another location. In this way, experts at any location can give instructions to the technician on site, offer training or give advice - for example on machine repairs, constructions or cleaning components. This minimizes unplanned downtime, travel costs and CO2 emissions. Remote collaboration is also more cost-effective.

2. collaboration in real time

Sometimes several technicians need to work together on individual objects. Smart glasses can be a great help here. A team of designers or engineers can view a (virtual) object via smart glasses from different locations and conveniently work on it together. The parallel use of 3D models as well as changes and mutual feedback take place in real time. Companies in the manufacturing industry avoid unnecessary travel and significantly accelerate development cycles thanks to live collaboration.

3. training

Assisted reality has the potential to permanently change training in the manufacturing industry. Training can be carried out live, remotely and in a resource-saving manner. Direct feedback and (safety) instructions are effortless. However, many more application scenarios are conceivable: OEMs could, for example, also send out assembly instructions together with machines and components that are loaded onto AR glasses. Every employee would then be able to assemble the parts without further instructions and have the instructions right in front of their eyes without having to take their hands off the machine. Although it would be an upfront investment to equip all new employees with AR glasses, the long-term savings can be enormous.

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