// ROBOTICS AND SMART FACTORIES TERM

Augmented Reality

A technology that overlays digital information, like instructions or data, onto a user's view of the real world, often through smart glasses or tablets. It enhances human perception and interaction with physical objects.

Augmented Reality — illustration from Wikipedia
Image via Wikipedia

TECHNICAL DEFINITION

Augmented Reality (AR) is a technology that superimposes computer-generated digital content (e.g., instructions, data visualizations) onto a user's real-world view in real-time, enhancing perception and providing interactive contextual information for tasks like maintenance or training in manufacturing.

BACKGROUND

Augmented reality (AR), also known as mixed reality (MR), is a form of 3D human–computer interaction that overlays real-time 3D-rendered computer graphics into the real world through a display, such as a handheld device or head-mounted display. This experience is seamlessly interwoven with the physical world such that it is perceived as an immersive aspect of the real environment. In this way, augmented reality alters one's ongoing perception of a real-world environment, compared to virtual reality, which aims to completely replace the user's real-world environment with a simulated one. Augmented reality is typically visual, but can span multiple sensory modalities, including auditory, haptic, and somatosensory.

READ MORE ON WIKIPEDIA

SYNONYMS & ALIASES

  • AR
  • mixed reality (subset)
  • enhanced reality
  • interactive overlay

USAGE NOTE

Used for guided assembly, maintenance, and training, providing workers with real-time visual assistance.

DEVELOPERS

Organizations developing technology related to Augmented Reality.

  • PTC

    A global software company known for its Vuforia augmented reality platform, which is widely adopted in manufacturing for guided work instructions, remote assistance, and design visualization.

  • Microsoft

    Developer of the HoloLens mixed reality headset, which is heavily utilized in manufacturing for design reviews, training, remote expert assistance, and factory floor operations.

  • TeamViewer

    Through its Frontline suite (formerly Ubimax), TeamViewer provides augmented reality solutions for smart glasses and mobile devices, focusing on optimizing industrial workflows, logistics, and field service operations.

  • Siemens

    A leader in industrial automation and digitalization, Siemens integrates augmented reality into its Xcelerator portfolio to enhance engineering, manufacturing, and service processes, often leveraging digital twin technology.

  • RealWear

    Manufactures ruggedized, head-mounted Android tablets designed specifically for frontline industrial workers, enabling hands-free operation, remote assistance, and workflow guidance in challenging environments.

  • Vuzix

    A leading supplier of smart glasses and augmented reality technologies for enterprise, offering devices and software solutions that improve productivity, safety, and training in manufacturing and logistics.

  • Librestream

    Provides the Onsight augmented reality platform, which delivers remote expert assistance, digital work instructions, and intelligent data capture for industrial field workers, maintenance, and manufacturing lines.

  • Scope AR

    Offers augmented reality solutions for remote assistance and work instructions, empowering industrial companies to improve efficiency, reduce downtime, and enhance training for their workforce.

RELATED TERMS IN SMART FACTORY