How Augmented Reality Can Be Implemented In The Company

Augmented Reality (AR) is no longer science fiction, but is used in many areas. For companies, for example, AR offers many opportunities to improve products and processes. However, the use of AR is by no means easy; expert knowledge is required here. That is why the research project "AR-based Product Service Systems" ("Across" for short) has developed a platform concept with which even smaller companies can use AR applications.

Create AR solutions from finished building blocks

The basic idea of the project: Companies can create individual augmented reality solutions and services from finished building blocks and even operate them via the platform. The project is funded by the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy (BMWi). Daniel Röltgen, Across project manager from Fraunhofer IEM, explains: “Whether video game or sales support - augmented reality is already being used successfully in many areas. However, small and medium-sized companies in particular currently benefit little from the possibilities because the development effort is very high. Our platform is a way to reduce this effort. We show exciting potential for additional services and business models with AR."

Application examples for AR

The machine builder Krause-Biagosch has tested the platform concept and sees great benefits for its customers. The repair of machines in use can be complex and expensive. In the future, Krause-Biagosch could project the repair instructions into the customer's field of vision using AR data glasses and thus offer additional services. The space company Ariane Group also developed a pilot application for the platform. For example, employees could be given step-by-step instructions for assembling the Ariane 6 rocket using AR glasses. Especially in tight spaces, they benefit from having both hands free. The demonstrators of both industrial applications can now be seen in the showroom of the BMWi's Smart Data Forum.

Both the repair and assembly instructions represent so-called Smart Services (data-based services). Via the Across platform, the services could be assembled with various pre-made augmented reality modules such as position detection or gesture control. Communication and data transfer take place centrally via the platform software. In companies where costly and complex in-house developments are not possible, the platform could open up easy access to AR technology. Stefan Afting from the BMWi explains the funding: “Behind the technology augmented reality and the individual solutions there is enormous potential for new business models. The Federal Ministry of Economics has funded Across because it helpsthat AR technology is spreading and that even medium-sized companies can take advantage of it more easily."

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The partners in the Across project are:

• Atos
• Ariane Group
• DAI laboratory
• Fraunhofer Institute for Mechatronics IEM
• Krause-Biagosch
• Ubimax

The research partners of the Across platform map the range of future platform users. Ubimax designed the AR modules that technology providers could in future make available via a library on the Across platform. The DAI laboratory enables the compilation of the building blocks of services to be used and a smooth implementation. The entire platform was created by Atos as the platform provider. Fraunhofer IEM methodically supported the development and designed suitable business models for the AR services.