AR provides field service technicians with real-time information and guidance on how to repair, maintain, or install equipment in the field.
We will explore how field service AR is revolutionizing the way field service technicians work, enhances the efficiency and accuracy of service delivery and what benefits it brings to businesses that adopt this technology.
Introduction to AR
Augmented reality (AR) allows field service technicians to access and visualise digital information in real-time, without having to refer to manuals or other printed materials. This technology can be used to provide step-by-step instructions, 3D visualizations, and other helpful information to technicians as they work.
Types of Digital information
Any type of digital information can be used:
- Images (pdfs, images, digital documentation)
- Video (most video formats such as mp4 or even online like YouTube)
- Audio (mp3s etc)
- 3D (as standalone assets or, mapped directly onto real world devices and places)
They can be mapped to specific images, objects or geo-positioned.
Benefits of Field Service AR
Field service AR offers a wide range of benefits to the field service industry. Some of the key benefits include:
- Improved Efficiency
- Enhanced Accuracy
- Improved Safety
Use Cases for Field Service AR
Field service AR can be used in a wide range of field service operations. Some of the key use cases include:
Equipment Maintenance and Repair
Provide technicians with real-time information on how to maintain and repair equipment. This can help reduce downtimes and increase the lifespan of equipment.
Installation and Commissioning
AR can be used to provide technicians with real-time guidance on how to install and commission new equipment. This can help to reduce installation time and improve the quality of installations.
Training and Onboarding
Provide new technicians with real-time guidance and training on how to perform field service operations. This can help to reduce the time and cost of onboarding new technicians and improve the quality of training.
Conclusion
AR is a technology that is revolutionizing the way field service technicians work. By providing real-time information and even guidance, AR can help to improve the efficiency, accuracy, and safety of field service operations. Benefit from reduced downtime, improved equipment lifespan, and increased customer satisfaction.
FAQs
Q: What types of field service tasks can be supported by AR?
A: AR can support a variety of tasks such as equipment maintenance, installation, inspection, and remote assistance.
Q: Can AR be used for training purposes in field service?
A: Yes, AR can be used for training technicians in a simulated environment to develop their skills.
Q: What are the benefits of using AR in field service?
A: AR provides numerous benefits such as increased productivity, reduced downtime, improved safety, and enhanced customer satisfaction.
Q: Can field service AR be used on any type of equipment?
A: Yes, field service AR can be used on a wide range of equipment, including industrial equipment, medical devices, and consumer electronics. It can be mapped directly to an object or geo positioned in a building or area.
Q: Do technicians need special training to use field service AR?
A: Technicians may need some training to learn how to use field service AR effectively, but the learning curve is generally short due to easy-to-use visual User Interfaces (UI) or by audio commands.
Q: Is field service AR expensive to implement?
A: The cost of implementing field service AR can vary depending on the size and complexity of the project and the type of digital assets used.