Introduction to Augmented Reality in Manufacturing
Augmented reality (AR) is becoming increasingly popular within the manufacturing and processing industries, particularly in maintenance and training applications. Companies are recognizing the potential of 3D models and point clouds to lower costs, reduce time, and minimize developer training. This technology allows users to view objects or environments with AR information, comparable to instructions, warnings, or routes, overlaid on the physical world.
The Role of 3D Mapping in AR
The Augmented Reality for Enterprise Alliance (AREA) notes that AR technology is already getting used with 3D mapping data to offer strategic tools for site planning, instructional guidance, and real-time navigation. As AR technology advances, its capabilities to leverage 3D mapping data can even expand. This has led to the publication of a brand new research report, "3D Mapping Solutions for Enterprise AR," which goals to assist corporations understand the applying of 3D mapping technologies to AR.
Understanding 3D Mapping Technologies
The report reviews 3D mapping technologies and principles, defining parameters for selecting a 3D scanner for a particular use case. According to Samuel Neblett, senior AR/VR software developer and 3D modeler for Boeing Research & Technology, "This research helps to tell how 3D mapping technologies may be utilized to capture accurate, cost-effective digital representations of real-world environments, how this data may be leveraged in augmented reality applications, and why these concepts may be useful in industrial environments."
Key Findings of the Research Report
The research report addresses several key questions, including:
- Which 3D mapping technologies may be utilized in enterprise AR
- The quickest and most accurate method to capture 3D environments for AR
- How to leverage existing standards for rapid and future-proof AR applications based on 3D mapping
- How to find out when so as to add 3D mapping
- How to integrate and leverage 3D mapping in AR authoring platforms
- How to integrate points of interest from 3D maps into AR experiences
- Where 3D mapping technology and AR must be used
- When and the way 3D environment maps may be useful in enterprise AR deployments
Real-World Applications
The report also features a supporting sample project that demonstrates a real-world example of leveraging 3D scan data for an AR-assisted use case. This provides a practical illustration of how 3D mapping technologies may be applied in enterprise AR.
Conclusion
In conclusion, using 3D mapping technologies in AR is a rapidly evolving field with significant potential for growth and development. As corporations proceed to explore the applications of AR in manufacturing and processing industries, it is important to know the role of 3D mapping in capturing accurate and cost-effective digital representations of real-world environments. By leveraging 3D mapping data, corporations can create simpler and efficient AR experiences, resulting in improved outcomes in maintenance, training, and other areas.
