Augmented reality technology supports production efficiency

Experts at Flinders University say workers in high-tech factories of the future will need to be trained and supported by Industry 4.0 technologies, such as augmented reality head-mounted displays (AR-HMDs), to manage workflows and troubleshoot problems remotely. This includes a new generation of shipyard workers.

According to a new paper published in the journal, trials of such AR-HMD technologies aimed at increasing productivity by reducing and correcting errors in advanced manufacturing and assembly will improve software, tracking and other promising features of such devices. Ergonomics.

“Despite the promotion of Industry 4.0 technologies to drive manufacturing agility and competitiveness, Australia has been slow to adopt them,” says first author Dr Valerie O’Keeffe, a senior researcher in human factors at Flinders University.

The Australian Navy’s Hunter-class frigate program provides an opportunity to accelerate the deployment of technologies that will improve the productivity and skills of workers in a traditional, complex and important industry.

“Head-mounted augmented reality displays provide the user with digital information directly and can be used to guide the execution of work tasks.”

To understand the user experience and workload of shipbuilders, the research case study focused on the “AR-HMD Hololens 2” in a simulated production workflow. This included multiple tasks (electrical assembly, inspection, and quality assurance) with a collaborative robot equipped with a camera for visual inspection.

The testing was conducted at Osborne Naval Shipyard with support from industrial partner BAE Systems Maritime Australia.

Dr. O’Keeffe believes the study shows that AR-HMDs could be a potential tool for integrating advanced technologies, increasing functionality while minimizing end-user burden.

“This is valuable for accelerating the learning process and upskilling workers struggling with skills shortages,” he says.

“Interface design, tracking, gestures, and device durability are factors that most likely limit AR-HMD adoption and require improvement to ensure effective implementation in operations.

“However, our findings indicate encouraging levels of technology acceptance and motivation among employees, which can promote learning and productivity.

“The results can be used to implement technologies and transfer knowledge to heavy industries beyond shipbuilding.”