Augmented reality in manufacturing is changing the way manufacturers perform their business operations. AR technology empowers producers to boost efficiency, reduce costs, innovate faster, and create better products.
With the use of augmented reality, businesses can better visualize and streamline complex processes, provide valuable insights into work instructions and operations, and improve safety.
In this comprehensive AR guide, we will look into different uses of the technology in the manufacturing landscape.
What Is Augmented Reality In Manufacturing?
Augmented reality for manufacturing is an advanced form of automation that helps to improve the production line. It combines the physical world with digital, computer-generated content, data, and other interactive elements.
The primary goal of AR apps in the production process is to reduce the need for manual labor, control the overall processes in the manufacturing sector, boost productivity, and improve visibility.
Using advanced technologies, manufacturing companies can identify potential problems, optimize the process flow, improve maintenance operations, and customize products accordingly. As a result, industrial automation makes production lines more flexible, cost-effective, and agile.
What Are The Use Cases Of AR in Manufacturing?
Industrial augmented reality will cross US$70 billion market value by the end of 2025. Augmented reality in automotive is used in multiple ways, including but not limited to inventory management, equipment maintenance, remote assembly, etc. Here are a few augmented reality applications in the manufacturing environment.
Equipment Maintenance
AR provides technicians with real-time contextual information. Using AR headsets, technicians in manufacturing can quickly access and apply detailed instructions while they work in real time. In addition, such a proactive approach help reduce the downtime related to machine maintenance operations.
Production Process Design
Various stages in the production process can benefit from advanced technologies like augmented reality. Be it prototyping, production line automation, or design refinement, AR tech can streamline everything from start to finish. AR devices like smart glasses help technicians create 3D models and virtual prototypes in new product development. It enables designers to interact with all the products in an immersive and interactive realistic environment, leading to increased productivity.
Quality Control
Keeping a check on the quality helps reduce the risk of defects and save time in the long run. One of the best augmented reality manufacturing applications is that the technology enables remote collaboration between workers in different locations. Many leading companies have implemented augmented reality production systems to automatically detect defects and reduce product inspection time.
Staff Training
Practicing different manufacturing activities using physical equipment or material can be challenging. This is where AR comes into the picture. Augmented reality applications help new workers practice various activities in real-world environments. Using holograms and 3D models of equipment, employees can practice without any potential safety hazards.
Logistics
The AR systems track and monitor materials and products throughout the logistics sector throughout the supply chain. For instance, augmented reality can digitize inventory and many other supply chain management processes. Not only can it accelerate delivery times, but it can also reduce data entry costs and manual tracking.
Spatial Computing
AR helps users transform spatial computing as a tool to visualize information in the physical world. You can create an interactive experience using the technology. Besides, AR can help your staff visualize the material’s density, hardness, or other properties in 3D space with the help of an AR headset.
Expert Support For Customers
Augmented reality allows customers to connect remotely with technicians and get immediate assistance. The new technology can help customers with step-by-step troubleshooting instructions directly from the experts. Not only in manufacturing, but AR also improves the customer experience in other industries.
For instance, if you’re a fashion and cosmetics brand, implementing AR apps will help your customers apply makeup using their smartphones. SelfStylo is a virtual makeup try-on application that allows customers to test hundreds of makeup products and then shop for them online.
Assembly Process
AR is a helpful tool for handling complex assembly processes. An assembly operator can use AR smart glasses to access instructions and visual assistance in assembling complex machines. With step-by-step instructions from AR, teams can quickly assemble parts and reduce potential errors.
Implement AR Solutions In Your Business
Companies are looking for powerful tools like VR and AR to reduce costs, increase efficiency, and create a safe working environment. Leveraging augmented reality in manufacturing provides workers with real-time knowledge, especially about products and supply chains.
The primary role of AR is to improve human and machine collaboration. However, it’s worth noting that the benefits of augmented reality are not only limited to the manufacturing industry. The fashion industry is benefitting from AR solutions too.
Top brands like Gucci, IKEA, etc., are leveraging virtual try-on tools to make the customer shopping experience smoother. If you’re looking to integrate augmented reality into your fashion business, schedule a free demo with SelfStylo AR experts today.