Industry 4.0: Augmented Reality and Virtual Reality

Technical tips on how to use augmented reality in the industrial environment.

Software and hardware technical requirements:

The choice of Android software development is driven by the future possibilities of software expansion and hardware upgrades.

The development libraries related to video calls, AR tracking and

many other support libraries for the development of such applications exist mainly for Android

and a little less extensively for iOS.

The most advanced augmented reality tools for Head Mounted devices exist only for Android.

Choosing another platform could cause maintenance problems over time or in the addition of new features, leading to probable loss of time.

Mobile App: Android
App Goggles: Daqri Smart Helmet with Linux Based
Development environment: Native Android – Daqri SDK – SDK Cloud Platform VideoCall (encrypted)

For the development of the application we recommend having the devices used to perform the necessary testing and debugging programs, Samsung smartphone, Samsung tablet, GPS Trimble R1 (GNSS position in real time), Daqri Smart Helmet.

Project approach and work plan

Reference context

Start creating a Pilot application (Proof of Concept) in Augmented Reality leading to the development of a system for the improvement of network maintenance processes through direct support to operators during field activities, increasing speed, accuracy and safety in the performance of the task.
Establish new organizational procedures in the area of infrastructure network maintenance.

How to develop the project:

Preliminary analysis of the required functionalities. Design and study of the graphical interface in augmented reality.
Development and implementation of the Pilot App structure for Android mobile devices.
Implementation of basic functions (remote expert video call mode, content and document exchange, repository) with augmented reality glasses.
Implementation of functions for use in the Daqri Smart Helmet wearable device.
Development of an automatic data visualization function, rendering of routes, wells, network infrastructures.
Program debugging and field testing.

Industry 4.0: The disciplines

Our agency always works together with the client on the three essential guidelines for the success of a complex initiative:

・Strategy.

・Technology

・User experience

Strategy

Tworeality ‘s consultants assist companies in the definition and implementation of integrated off-line and on-line business strategies for the purpose of multichannel and enriching the customer experience for an industry 4.0.

Distinctive competence is the ability to plan innovative business models and strategies in synergy with the opportunities offered by new technologies.

Technologies

Tworeality’s ability to create value for the customer is based not only on understanding the promises that technologies offer, but also on the effective and reliable realization of applicative solutions capable of delivering on these promises.

Its strength is the ability to plan and implement a solution integrating the use of basic technologies,

knowledge of the most advanced software packages,

the development of ad-hoc components for the client’s reality, reconciling the novelty of the solution with the corporate processes and legacy systems.

User experience

Tworeality has developed a particular competence and sensitivity in the analysis and study of user behavior and has always used and integrated this knowledge in its projects,

whether they are oriented to the design and implementation of solutions for end customers or “internal” customers of the company.

This knowledge combined with brand strategy, information design and graphic design skills allow Tworeality to create innovative, multi-channel projects aimed at establishing a lasting relationship with our clients’ users.

Industry 4.0: Why do we believe in augmented reality?

Augmented Reality is a technology that will influence the way we work and live today.

Enriches the real world

Objects in the real world when viewed through a digital device can be enriched with information by adding virtual 2D and 3D elements.

Supports the digitization of companies

All data generated by the AR Applications are already in digital format. This data can be used for detailed analysis(big data analytics).

Improves business productivity

Efficiency is improved through increased information and instructions that assist the operator during routine or extraordinary activities.

Increases user participation

Users can interact with objects in the real world through virtual elements that support their learning.

Reduces costs and the possibility of error

A digital platform in AR ensures that work can be done faster, at lower costs and with a lower error rate.

Increase and accelerate sales

The visualization of augmented content favors sales because it allows you to virtually try a product before buying it.