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Augmented Reality Training, transforming the future of industrial learning with intuitive digital simulations, 3D objects & more…
Be it onboarding new hires or upskilling experienced workers, the art of transferring & accessing knowledge in industrial settings has undergone a profound transformation over the years. From hands-on workshops to bulky printed manuals to modern digital simulations or 3D objects, the tools of industrial training have evolved significantly.
Earlier factories relied heavily on training their workforce on the job, where skills were passed down through practice and demonstration to newly hired employees by the experienced workers. With the evolution of industries over the years, complexity in equipment, manufacturing processes and safety protocols has increased exponentially, making traditional methods of on-the-job training more time-consuming and less effective.
This fast pace of technological change and increasing complexities in industrial processes have created a significant challenge in training new workers and keeping existing employees up-to-date with rapidly changing technologies and procedures. However, the emergence of Augmented Reality (AR) technology has made it easier to overcome these challenges & it is revolutionizing industrial training with its ability to blend the digital information with the physical world. Let us dive into this article to know exactly what Augmented Reality Training is, its types and how it works to transform the way we learn, work, acquire knowledge and skills in industrial settings.
Augmented Reality Training is an innovative approach to an intuitive educational experience & skill development presented through augmented reality apps or software on AR- enabled devices such as AR glasses, smartphones, iPads or tablets. It is a digital augmented documentation of our living reality that overlays computer-generated information such as text, 3D models, interactive elements and animations onto a trainee's field of view or their real world environment. This is a huge contrast from traditional classroom learning approaches, providing a unique interactive experience and bridging the gap between practical application and theoretical knowledge.
AR Training works on AR-enabled devices ( AR glasses, smartphones, iPads or tablets ) that supports AR software. When a user or a trainee accesses these devices, the software uses the device camera to identify the environment or real-world objects and then overlays relevant digital information onto the user’s view.
Let’s take an example of AR Genie Work Assist, an AR software tool for industrial operations, maintenance & training. When a trainee opens the Work Assist application, they view their training workflow. By scanning QR code via AR glasses or pointing a device camera at a piece of machinery, the AR system displays the job workflow along with step-by-step instructions. This may include animated demonstrations, videos, documents, 3D models or images overlaid on or around the equipment.
These virtual elements allow for hands-on practice or experimentation by responding in real-time to the user’s interactions and movements. Trainees can use AR anchors or hand gestures to point or move specific AR elements, give voice commands, or ask questions to enhance the interactive experience and streamline their workflow.
Throughout the training, learners can interact with AR information, adapt the training levels or leave specific evidence such as text notes, images or videos for supervision or feedback. Equipped with AR glasses, the training becomes more easy to practice as trainees get to operate on the equipment or machinery hands-free without the hassle of managing other devices or practice tools. They can practice on-the-job and off-the-job with AR Simulation in a controlled setting, before practicing on the actual machinery on-site. This type of learning not only enhances trainee’s skill but also saves their time on field.
As for now we have explored how these AR trainings work, let us move on to the types of training that are used to reinforce an immersive training environment. Some of them are:
From streamlining complex processes to offering expert guidance, AR serves numerous benefits, revolutionizing how industries manage their operations and train workforce with the latest tools & intuitive learning materials.
AR is poised to transform industrial job training with efficient, immersive, and effective learning experiences that were once the stuff of science fiction. From on-the-job guidance to complex AR simulations, it provides a versatile toolkit for equipping the industrial workforce to be more productive and advanced in the future. We can expect AR training to become increasingly personalized, and integral to industrial operations with a more skilled, confident, and adaptable workforce ready to tackle the challenges of modern industry.
