Augmented Reality (AR)
Augmented reality (augmented reality, AR) is the result of introducing any sensory data into the field of perception in order to supplement information about the environment and improve information perception.
How does AR technology work
The scheme of creating augmented reality in many cases is as follows: the camera of the AR device captures the image of a real object; The software (software) of the device identifies the received image, selects or calculates the visual addition corresponding to the image, combines the real image with its addition and displays the final image on the visualization device.
Sometimes a pilot’s / a motorcycle helmet’s helmet or an airplane / vehicle’s windshield, onto which additional images and / or text information are projected, is used as a visualization device.
Devices implementing AR
Devices capable of creating augmented reality can be divided into the following groups.
Mobile devices. These include tablets, smartphones, glasses and, in perspective, augmented reality lenses.
On tablets and smartphones must be installed specialized software. For example, augmented reality browsers or special applications can be installed on smartphones and tablets. These browsers / applications can show attractions, shops, cafes, etc. that are closest to the user’s location, as well as perform other useful functions.
Augmented reality glasses, as a rule, project holograms and information into real space, but do not tie them to physical objects. In fact, this is just a screen before your eyes.
Lenses for augmented reality are still the technology of the future, such devices will come to the market no earlier than 5–10 years. But Samsung has already filed a patent for “smart” contact lenses, and Google is leading the work in this direction.
Stationary devices. This can be a TV, computer screen, gaming computer. The already added image is displayed on the TV / computer screen. Sometimes large-format screens are used, as well as projection systems capable of superimposing images not only on screens, but also on any surfaces.
Special tools. These include, for example, helmets for military pilots. Important information that a pilot needs is displayed on the glass of such a helmet, and he can perceive it without looking at the dashboard. A smart motorcycle helmet can display motorcycle speed, route, text messages and more. A similar technology is planned to be used to display information on the windshield of the car.
AR in industry
In the industry, augmented reality technology is widely used for the prompt provision of information to workers of assembly production. It can provide a variety of methods.
The plots are equipped with large displays, which display the three-dimensional composition of products and a complete set of documentation.
All data on where and in what order the assembly should be carried out is transmitted to collectors through AR glasses.
Workers in case of problems contact the experts through augmented reality glasses, show the equipment they assemble and receive answers to questions from the specialists who designed the product using the same glasses.
AR technologies can also be used by repair workers who can see data on the operating time or, for example, the operating temperature of a particular node of serviced equipment, or operators who can control an object using a touch screen, voice or gestures on a smartphone or smart glasses display.
An example of using AR in the IT-Enterprise SmartEAM solution at Interpipe STEEL
