Mobile Augmented Reality for communicating with customers

[CJ Cassar]

Hi Folks,

So I've been really thinking a lot about the concept of communication for (mechanical/manufacturing/industrial/product design/ anyone that designs physical stuff) engineers. I was once a naval architect/mechanical engineer so I wondered about this from before my transition to software engineering. And I'm betting that mobile AR is a good solution for this sort of thing. Someone said on one of my posts that (going to paraphrase) "2D is fine for engineers but 3D is great for those with a less technical background".

Wondering what others might think of this?

Examples from their personal experience in the field would also be pretty cool!

 

[CWB1]

Many OEs today use videoconferencing to connect field service techs directly with engineering. I know several companies that issue smart glasses and/or ruggedized tablets to both factory and customer techs so engineers/factory support can remotely “see” the field’s problems firsthand while testing is ongoing. Ultimately it saves a ton of money on unnecessary travel and downtime. Unfortunately ships’ engine rooms aren’t known for great WiFi or satellite reception, BTDT. I’ve actually carried this mentality over into mundane personal life. With four(?) conference apps on my phone, if the store doesn’t have the exact brand/size/color of something the wife has sent me to fetch, you betcha that I am videoconferencing her to show what’s actually on the shelf so the choice (read blame) for better/worse remains hers.

As for 2d vs 3d, I haven’t seen issues with techs not understanding 2d, however when it comes to complex hose or wire routing 3d is definitely a nicety. Many plants today have lightweight 3d CAD on the assembly line rather than prints for reference and junior assemblers are often more capable on it than older, out of touch engineers - always entertaining.