In a constantly changing world – saturated with a multitude of impressions – it can sometimes be difficult to maintain an overview. After all, all impressions not only have to be perceived, but also interpreted, which ultimately opens up a wide range of options for action. This is where LUMINOUS (Language Augmentation for Humanverse) system comes into play. The DFKI-technology collects countless impressions, interprets them and can suggest an appropriate action using MLLM.<blockquote id="isPasted">"Through our developed technology, virtual worlds become increasingly intelligent. The intuitive interaction (via text) with the system and automatic generation of complex behaviors and processes through 'generative AI' or so-called 'Multi-Modal Large Language Models' enable us not only to experience them, but also to test them. To achieve this, at project LUMINOUS we are working in parallel on several approaches such as automatic code generation, the rapid input of new data and other solutions."<footer>Didier Stricker, Lead "Augmented Vision" at DFKI</footer></blockquote><header><h2>System observes, interprets – and refines itself</h2></header>In the new LUMINOUS project, DFKI is working on next-generation augmented reality (XR) systems. In the future, generative and multimodal language models (MLLM) will join the existing technical extensions of our visually perceived reality, such as the form of texts, animations or the insertion of virtual objects, and redefine interaction with augmented reality (XR) technology.Muhammad Zeshan Afzal, researcher in the department 'Augmented Vision' at DFKI explains, how this might look like in practise:„Let’s take the following scenario: a fire breaks out in a room. In this case, our system first determines where the person – who is equipped with our technology – is currently located. It then collects relevant data from their immediate surroundings, such as the presence of a fire extinguisher or an emergency exit and passes this on to the generative and multimodal language model. This then determines a suitable recommendation for action, such as initiating the extinguishing process using a fire extinguisher, closing windows, or getting to safety.”<img src="https://images.wevolver.com/eyJidWNrZXQiOiJ3ZXZvbHZlci1wcm9qZWN0LWltYWdlcyIsImtleSI6ImZyb2FsYS8xNzI2NTMwNzIzODgwLTEyNDIxNC5wbmciLCJlZGl0cyI6eyJyZXNpemUiOnsid2lkdGgiOjk1MCwiZml0IjoiY292ZXIifX19" style="width: 100%px;" class="fr-fic fr-dib"><header id="isPasted"><h2>Learning from descriptions creates flexibility</h2></header>Until now, R&amp;D endeavours have been largely limited to the spatial tracking of users and their environment. The result: very specific, limited, and non-generalisable representations, as well as predefined graphic visualizations and animations. „Language Augmentation for Humanverse“ aims to change this in the future.To achieve this, the researchers at DFKI are developing a platform with language support that adapts to individual, non-predefined user needs and previously unknown augmented reality environments. The adaptable concept originates from zero-shot learning (ZSL), an AI system that is trained to recognize and categorize objects and scenarios – without having seen exemplary reference material in advance.The assistance helps LUMINOUS to learn and constantly expand its knowledge – beyond the pure training data. By making names and text descriptions available to the LLM, LUMINOUS will use its database of image descriptions to build up a flexible image and text vocabulary that makes it possible to recognize even unknown objects or scenes.<header><h2>Interactive support in real time</h2><img src="https://s3-us-west-1.amazonaws.com/wevolver-project-images/froala%2F1726530985514-vinicius-amnx-amano-XOnbUXqILzA-unsplash.jpg" style="width: 100%px;" class="fr-fic fr-dib">Photo by Vinicius "amnx" Amano on UnsplashThe areas of application for augmented reality systems such as LUMINOUS go beyond situational assistance. „We are currently investigating possible applications for everyday care of sick people, implementation of training programmes, performance monitoring and motivation”, says Zeshan Afzal.As a kind of translator, the LLM from LUMINOUS should be able to describe everyday activities on command and mediate them to users via a voice interface or avatar. The visual assistance and recommended actions provided in this way will then support everyday activities in real time.<h2>LUMINOUS in application</h2>The results of the project are being tested in three pilot projects focussing on neurorehabilitation (support for stroke patients with speech disorders), immersive safety training in the workplace and the testing of 3D architectural designs.In the case of neurorehabilitation of stroke patients with severe communication deficits (aphasia), realistic virtual characters (avatars) support the initiation of conversation through image-directed models. These are based on natural language and enable generalization to other activities of daily life. Objects in the scene (including people) are recognized in real time using eye-tracking and object recognition algorithms. Patients can then ask the avatar or MLLM to articulate either the name of the object or the first phoneme. To use the language models in the patient’s respective environment, patients undergo personalised and intensive XR-supported training.<img src="https://s3-us-west-1.amazonaws.com/wevolver-project-images/froala%2F1726531264095-amr-taha-JpmhbbPhuZA-unsplash.jpg" style="width: 100%px;" class="fr-fic fr-dib">Photo by Amr Taha™ on UnsplashThe LUMINOUS-Tech captures the movements and style of the human trainer with a minimal number of sensors to enable the modelling and instantiation of three-dimensional avatars. The aim is to use only kinematic information derived exclusively from the input of the headset, the position of the head and the hands during training.Future users of these new XR-systems will be able to interact seamlessly with their environment by using language models while having access to constantly updated global and domain-specific knowledge sources. In this way, new XR-technologies can be used for distance learning and education, entertainment, or healthcare services, for example.<hr><header id="isPasted"><h2>Partners:</h2></header><ul><li>German Research Centre for Artificial Intelligence GmbH (DFKI)</li><li>Ludus Tech SL</li><li>Mindesk Societa a Responsabilita Limita</li><li>Fraunhofer Society for the Advancement of Applied Research</li><li>Universidad del Pais Vasco/Euskal Herriko Universitatea</li><li>Fundación Centro de Tecnologias de Interacción visual y Comunicaciones Vicomtech</li><li>University College Dublin</li><li>National University of Ireland</li><li>Hypercliq IKE</li><li>Ricoh International B.V. – Brach Office Germany</li><li>MindMaze SA</li><li>Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Vaudois</li><li>University College London</li></ul>The project is subsidised by the European Union. Project LUMINOUS (Language Augmentation for Humanverse) does in no way shape or form relate to the AI Language Model Luminous, developed by Aleph Alpha.</header>

The DFKI-technology collects countless impressions, interprets them and can suggest an appropriate action using MLLM.

Project Luminous: The next level of Augmented Reality

The transportation industry is rapidly evolving, driven by a global shift towards electrification. Ambitious climate goals and growing consumer demand for sustainability have made the electric vehicle (EV) market a center of innovation.In this evolving landscape, virtual prototyping has become vital for engineers, enabling more efficient and flexible EV development. While physical testing remains essential, its time and cost constraints can limit its effectiveness, making virtual prototyping indispensable for rapid, cost-effective design optimization.Virtual prototyping leverages predictive, real-time, and immersive simulation software, allowing engineers across domains to design, test, and validate vehicle components and systems in a digital, single-source environment before building any physical prototypes. It accelerates development, reduces costs, and fosters innovation by enabling rapid iteration and collaborative decision-making, particularly in exploring new designs, battery technology, and lightweight materials.Leading automakers such as Volvo, Toyota, SEAT, Renault, Toyoda Gosei, Hyundai, and Audi have embraced virtual prototyping in some capacity to stay competitive in this ever-evolving EV market and meet growing demands for sustainable, high-performance vehicles. This progressive approach enhances design efficiency and aligns with the industry's broader shift towards innovation.1<a href="https://www.esi-group.com/company/who-we-are" target="_blank">ESI Group</a>, a pioneer in this field, has been at the forefront of virtual prototyping since its first-ever crash simulation with Volkswagen in 1985. Today, ESI leads the field by setting new standards for virtual homologation, enabling automakers to validate their designs from the outset and eliminating the need for multiple costly and time-consuming physical prototypes for safety certification.This article provides an overview of how ESI's virtual prototyping solutions are transforming EV development.<h2 dir="ltr" id="isPasted">Overcoming Crash and Safety Testing Challenges</h2>Vehicle safety and structural integrity are critical in automotive design, especially for EVs. Simulation techniques are essential for analyzing crash dynamics, safety features, and overall performance. This approach allows designers to rapidly develop innovative solutions that meet evolving regulations and e-mobility challenges, ultimately leading to safer and more efficient vehicles.Here is how ESI's <a href="https://www.esi-group.com/products/virtual-performance-solution" target="_blank">virtual performance simulation</a> (VPS) software helps engineers tackle the most challenging cases in automotive engineering:<ul><li dir="ltr">Struggling with tight deadlines for testing crash scenarios?&nbsp;Test various scenarios in virtual crash simulation, including frontal, side pole, and far-side collisions, to evaluate vehicle deformation and its impact on occupants and pedestrians without the cost and delays of physical tests.2</li><li dir="ltr">Need to analyze complex airbag deployment? VPS accurately models and simulates airbag folding and deployment, including intricate side curtain airbags and non-uniform pressures, and is renowned for its unmatched accuracy and efficiency.3&nbsp;</li><li dir="ltr">Concerned about evaluating battery performance and safety early in development? Assess full car crash scenarios, regulatory crush analysis, and battery stiffness, shock, and swelling in crash and safety simulation to ensure designs meet rigorous safety standards before physical testing.4&nbsp;</li><li dir="ltr">Looking for a cost-effective way to assess vehicle strength and dynamics?&nbsp;Use ESI's single simulation tool to evaluate vehicle strength and dynamics, including stiffness, pothole impacts, door and hood durability, and the impact of water crossing. This enhances reliability while reducing testing mileage and material cost, making it more environmentally friendly.&nbsp;5</li></ul>In short, ESI's simulation software for virtual crash, safety, and structural testing enables you to effectively manage the complexities of modern vehicle design.However, another crucial aspect of vehicle performance engineering that demands just as much attention is vibro-acoustic performance.<h2 dir="ltr">Mastering Noise and Sound to Enhance EV Acoustics</h2>As vehicle electrification increases, managing acoustic comfort and compliance with noise regulations becomes increasingly crucial. Traditional acoustic testing may not address the complexities of new EVs, making virtual vibro-acoustic simulation a more comprehensive approach for optimizing interior and exterior noise.&nbsp;But how efficiently can you conduct vibro-acoustic analysis? Are you struggling to ensure a quiet, comfortable environment for passengers while meeting pass-by noise regulations and ensuring effective acoustic warning systems?Here's how ESI's <a href="https://www.esi-group.com/products/va-one" target="_blank">vibro-acoustic simulation software</a> can help you test and optimize interior and exterior noise performance, ensuring comfort, compliance and protection:<ul><li dir="ltr">Airborne Noise Simulation: Optimizes how noise control treatments affect cabin acoustics.</li><li dir="ltr">Structure-Borne Noise Analysis: Evaluates noise generated through structural loads.</li><li dir="ltr">Sound Package Design and Optimization: Designs and tests noise control countermeasures to enhance acoustic performance.</li><li dir="ltr">Pass-By Noise (PBN) Simulation: Ensures vehicles meet regulatory noise standards.</li><li dir="ltr">Acoustic Vehicle Alerting Systems (AVAS): Designs effective warning sounds to enhance safety.</li><li dir="ltr">Wind Noise: Predicts the effect of wind noise on acoustic comfort by integrating CFD data into the vehicle models.</li><li dir="ltr">Auralization: Creates realistic sound scenarios to evaluate the acoustic environment before physical testing.</li></ul><ul id="isPasted"><li dir="ltr">Road Noise Simulation: Predicts and optimizes noise levels from road interactions.6,7</li></ul> With safety and acoustic performance validated, the next step is manufacturability. Just as simulation software has transformed performance testing, manufacturing simulation enhances and optimizes production processes and part performance, ensuring the designs are realized with precision and efficiency.<h2 dir="ltr">Virtual Manufacturing for Lightweight Materials and Processes</h2>Lightweight materials are essential in modern vehicle body and chassis design as automakers seek to reduce weight for improved fuel efficiency and performance. This shift has led to a transition from only steel to multi-material strategies that combine steel with aluminum and composites such as carbon fiber.While these approaches reduce vehicle weight and maintain excellent crash performance, they also introduce new manufacturing challenges, necessitating the validation of the optimal combination of lightweight materials and joining processes to achieve the best performance-cost-weight ratio.To address these challenges, automakers should frontload their manufacturing decisions by creating a virtual manufacturing process chain. This approach provides early confidence in material selection, manufacturing methods, and assembly processes before physical production, reducing the risk of costly revisions and ensuring a smoother transition from design to manufacturing.&nbsp;ESI's <a href="https://www.esi-group.com/industries/automotive/body-chassis-manufacturing" target="_blank">multi-material assembly simulation</a> allows for thorough evaluation and optimization using the following virtual manufacturing simulation tools:<ul><li dir="ltr">ProCAST:&nbsp;Predicts and eliminates defects, such as misruns, inclusions, shrinkage porosity, cracks, and excessive distortions, in various casting processes, including large-scale or mega castings.8</li><li dir="ltr">PAM-STAMP:&nbsp;Virtually assesses defect formation, predicts and compensates for spring back in high-strength steels and aluminum, and explores advanced processes like press hardening.9</li><li dir="ltr">SYSWELD:&nbsp;Ensures robust, durable spot welds by predicting weld strength and quality. Analyze each assembly step, minimize distortions from gap closing and joining processes, and optimize weld sequences to control final assembly distortions.&nbsp;10</li><li dir="ltr">PAM-COMPOSITES:&nbsp;The only complete simulation chain that identifies and fixes manufacturing defects in composite products, covering draping, thermoforming, various resin molding processes, infusion, curing, and geometrical distortions.11</li></ul>However, developing sustainable, safe, and comfortable vehicles is just one part of the equation; integrating the human aspect from the early design stages is crucial for perfecting a new vehicle.This is where advanced immersive virtual reality (VR) software comes into play.<img src="https://images.wevolver.com/eyJidWNrZXQiOiJ3ZXZvbHZlci1wcm9qZWN0LWltYWdlcyIsImtleSI6ImZyb2FsYS8xNzI1ODg2NjA2Mzk0LUVTSV9MSVZFX0FVVE9fV2V2b2x2ZXJfMDJfODAweDUwMF92MDEuanBnIiwiZWRpdHMiOnsicmVzaXplIjp7IndpZHRoIjo5NTAsImZpdCI6ImNvdmVyIn19fQ==" style="width: 100%px;" class="fr-fic fr-dib"> <h2 dir="ltr" id="isPasted">The Industrial Metaverse for Virtual Build and Immersive Product Integration</h2>Innovating in EV design and manufacturing introduces new risks that may not be apparent until production begins. These include components integration, assembly, installation or removal challenges, and maintenance issues.Without physical prototypes for early evaluation, these issues can lead to production bottlenecks and missed opportunities for optimization, impacting EV's overall success.ESI's <a href="https://www.esi-group.com/products/ic-ido" target="_blank">IC.IDO</a> (virtual reality software) offers an innovative solution, allowing automakers to experience their products within a collaborative industrial metaverse. It provides physically realistic virtual experiences for product assembly and maintenance, offering opportunities to:<ul><li dir="ltr">Evaluate&nbsp;space constraints, clearances, visibility, and component accessibility.</li><li dir="ltr">Assess and optimize&nbsp;cable and hose routing and handling.</li><li dir="ltr">Define and refine&nbsp;installation and removal paths.</li><li dir="ltr">Develop,&nbsp;test, playback, refine, and optimize assembly processes.</li><li dir="ltr">Validate&nbsp;procedures, work cells, and production lines.</li></ul>Identifying potential issues early with VR accelerates the development process, reduces costs, and improves the quality and safety of the final product. Therefore, automakers can optimize the entire product lifecycle from initial concept to final assembly by simulating real-world interactions with virtual prototypes.&nbsp;<h2 dir="ltr">Discover More EV Innovation at ESI LIVE Automotive</h2>To explore these fundamental simulation technologies in detail and gain valuable insights from leading experts, attend ESI LIVE Automotive. This event offers a comprehensive overview of predictive modeling and virtual prototyping through practical examples from the automotive industry.Attendees will learn about optimizing EV safety and comfort, mastering noise and sound, virtual manufacturing for lightweight materials, and the role of the industrial metaverse in virtual build and product integration.Discover how these technologies are advancing electric vehicle design. Join us to gain valuable insights from industry experts and stay up-to-date with the latest developments.What:&nbsp;ESI Live automotive digital eventWhen:&nbsp;October 24th, 2-4 PM CETRegister: Free to attend.&nbsp;<a href="https://esiliveautomotive.vfairs.com/en/registration?utm_source=wevolver&utm_medium=all&utm_campaign=registration" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" class="button-main-action">Sign up to attend here.</a>&nbsp;For more information and to register, visit <a href="https://www.wevolver.com/article/esi-live-automotive-digital-event-empowering-innovation-through-virtual-prototyping/draft" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">ESI LIVE Automotive</a>.<h3 dir="ltr">References</h3><ol><li dir="ltr">ESI Group. How is Virtual Prototyping Accelerating Electric Vehicle Development? [Online]. Available at: <a href="https://www.esi-group.com/ebook-how-is-virtual-prototyping-accelerating-electric-vehicle-development" target="_blank">https://www.esi-group.com/ebook-how-is-virtual-prototyping-accelerating-electric-vehicle-development</a>&nbsp;</li><li dir="ltr">ESI Group. Virtual Performance Solution - Software to Simulate &amp; Test Crash &amp; Safety. [Online]. Available at: <a href="https://www.esi-group.com/products/virtual-performance-solution/crash-and-safety" target="_blank">https://www.esi-group.com/products/virtual-performance-solution/crash-and-safety</a>&nbsp;</li><li dir="ltr">Baccari, N. Toyoda Gosei Europe Cuts Lead Times in Half Using Virtual Prototyping. (2020). [Online]. Available at: <a href="https://www.esi-group.com/blog/toyoda-gosei-europe-cuts-lead-times-in-half-using-virtual-prototyping" target="_blank">https://www.esi-group.com/blog/toyoda-gosei-europe-cuts-lead-times-in-half-using-virtual-prototyping</a></li><li dir="ltr">ESI Group. Software to Simulate Battery Safety. [Online]. Available at: <a href="https://www.esi-group.com/products/virtual-performance-solution/battery-safety" target="_blank">https://www.esi-group.com/products/virtual-performance-solution/battery-safety</a></li><li dir="ltr">ESI Group. Software to Simulate Strength &amp; Dynamics. [Online]. Available at: <a href="https://www.esi-group.com/products/virtual-performance-solution/strength-and-dynamics" target="_blank">https://www.esi-group.com/products/virtual-performance-solution/strength-and-dynamics</a></li><li dir="ltr">ESI Group. Simulation Software Solutions for Acoustic Performance. [Online]. Available at: <a href="https://www.esi-group.com/industries/automotive/simulation-software-solutions-for-acoustic-performance" target="_blank">https://www.esi-group.com/industries/automotive/simulation-software-solutions-for-acoustic-performance</a></li><li dir="ltr">ESI Group. VA One - Interior Acoustics Simulation Software. [Online]. Available at: <a href="https://www.esi-group.com/products/va-one/interior-acoustics-simulation-software" target="_blank">https://www.esi-group.com/products/va-one/interior-acoustics-simulation-software</a></li><li dir="ltr">ESI Group. ProCAST - Casting Simulation Software. [Online]. Available at: <a href="https://www.esi-group.com/products/procast" target="_blank">https://www.esi-group.com/products/procast</a></li><li dir="ltr">ESI Group. PAM-COMPOSITES - Composite Simulation Software. [Online]. Available at: <a href="https://www.esi-group.com/products/pam-composites" target="_blank">https://www.esi-group.com/products/pam-composites</a></li><li dir="ltr">ESI Group. SYSWELD - Welding &amp; Assembly Simulation Software. [Online]. Available at: <a href="https://www.esi-group.com/products/sysweld" target="_blank">https://www.esi-group.com/products/sysweld</a></li><li dir="ltr">ESI Group. PAM-STAMP - Stamping Simulation Software. [Online]. Available at: <a href="https://www.esi-group.com/products/pam-stamp" target="_blank">https://www.esi-group.com/products/pam-stamp</a>&nbsp;</li></ol>ESI Group. IC.IDO - Virtual Reality Engineering Software. [Online]. Available at: <a href="https://www.esi-group.com/products/ic-ido" target="_blank">https://www.esi-group.com/products/ic-ido</a>&nbsp;

Virtual prototyping is essential for efficient, flexible EV development, complementing physical testing to overcome time and cost constraints.

How to Drive Faster and More Collaborative Decision-Making for Next-Generation Vehicle Development

<h2 id="isPasted">New whitepaper: How Augmented Reality is redefining product development.</h2>Augmented Reality (AR) is not just a tool; it's a transformative force that is reshaping many processes in business. Production companies, in particular, benefit from AR because they can leverage its benefits along their entire value chain, from product development to manufacturing, logistics, marketing, customer service, and employee training.&nbsp;In the recent white paper from HoloLight, 'AR as a Booster for Industry 4.0,' you can explore the ways in which AR can have a significant transformative impact.&nbsp;Key highlights of the whitepaper:<ul><li dir="ltr">Learn how companies can use AR to increase the quality and productivity of their entire process chain</li><li dir="ltr">Understand what a consistent Augmented Reality strategy can look like and how to implement one.</li><li dir="ltr">Discover how well-known companies are already successfully using AR through detailed case studies.&nbsp;</li></ul>Don't miss out on these valuable insights. Get your copy of the white paper now by filling out the simple form below.&nbsp;<iframe id="JotFormIFrame-241713238748360" title="Hololight Form" allowtransparency="true" src="https://form.jotform.com/241713238748360" frameborder="0" style="min-width:100%;max-width:100%;height:539px;border:none;" scrolling="no" class="fr-draggable" data-lf-form-tracking-inspected-kn9eq4roawkarlvp="true" data-lf-yt-playback-inspected-kn9eq4roawkarlvp="true" data-lf-vimeo-playback-inspected-kn9eq4roawkarlvp="true"> </iframe><a href="https://hololight.com/lns-group-saves-prototyping-costs-for-machine-tools/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">LNS Group</a>, a Swiss leader in machine tool peripherals, is driving immersive technologies throughout its product development cycles. From early design reviews with global stakeholders to risk assessment and handover to operations, the company is reducing time-to-market by 3 months and saving $5,000 to $10,000 per prototype while improving product quality.LNS Group is a global Swiss machine tool peripherals specialist that operates four different product lines and has nine production sites across Switzerland, Italy, the UK, Taiwan, China, Japan, and the USA. The company has around 1,000 dedicated professionals worldwide and is known for its strong focus on research and development as well as its global presence. “The way we communicate is key to the success of the product,” emphasizes Jamie Towers, CTO of LNS. “You can’t really quantify it, but the most important thing in product development is to get buy-in from all the stakeholders and have everyone understand and agree on what we’re trying to accomplish as early as possible.”Easier said than done. The CTO and the innovation team recognized the early need to integrate industrial augmented and virtual reality (AR/VR) into their research and development processes to encourage better communication and collaboration among global teams and departments. “We chose the XR Engineering solution, <a href="https://hololight.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Hololight Space</a>, because it met our vision for adaptability and ease of use right from the start. We upload our designs to the cloud platform and simply start a collaborative meeting. In our industry, complexity often leads to resistance, but the solution’s straightforward functionality means our team can focus on pushing the boundaries of innovation without the frustration of dealing with cumbersome systems.”<h2>How LNS Group Engages Non-Design Teams with Augmented Reality for Better Outcomes</h2>LNS specializes in manufacturing bar feeders, chip conveyors, air filtration, and coolant management systems, &nbsp;essential for the automotive, watch, medical, and aerospace industries. The company follows a standard product development process. They start by reviewing market requirements, then proceed to the development phase, and finally return to the market for implementation.. “We’re 100% committed to delivering customer-focused products,” says Towers. “The only way to do that is to really work with the customer and the people who face the customer. That’s your sales team, that’s your customer service team. And those are the hardest people to engage when it comes to design reviews,” he adds with a smile.Non-design teams often struggle with the challenge of visualizing products from onscreen models alone. The difficulty of assessing scale, accessibility, and maintenance considerations from a 3D model on a 2D screen can create a gap in understanding the product in tangible terms, making it difficult to provide the concrete feedback engineers need to better tailor the product to customer needs. This gap often requires the creation and global distribution of multiple prototype versions, at significant financial and environmental cost. Hololight Space now provides a dynamic digital workspace for seamless interaction with 3D CAD data in both AR and VR environments. Users can visualize and work with their 3D content to review designs, plan a factory layout, perform quality assurance, or verify assembly processes. Data is streamed from powerful on-premises or cloud servers with Nvidia GRID GPUs to ensure high levels of security and high-quality visualization without the need for data optimization.<iframe width="640" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/pX3jw1FnRyw?&amp;wmode=opaque&amp;rel=0&amp;enablejsapi=1&amp;origin=https://www.wevolver.com" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="" class="fr-draggable" data-lf-form-tracking-inspected-kn9eq4roawkarlvp="true" data-lf-yt-playback-inspected-kn9eq4roawkarlvp="true" data-lf-vimeo-playback-inspected-kn9eq4roawkarlvp="true"></iframe> <h3>Use Case 1 – How LNS Group Uses AR for Worldwide Collaboration &amp; Design Reviews</h3>Using Hololight Space in the design process heralds a transformative shift. Teams can visualize products in real-world contexts, facilitating more accurate and comprehensive early-stage reviews. Tangible interaction with a product before it is physically created, leads to the development of more accurate initial prototypes, significantly shortening the iterative cycle of prototyping. “Visualizing our designs in AR and the real world helps us get valuable feedback from our sales and customer service teams on what might need to be tweaked to better meet customer needs. It also works very well with our customer service teams, such as checking the accessibility on the digital twin to see how we can service a particular product,” explains Brian Scruggs, Global Engineering Administrator at LNS. “We typically use Hololight Space to highlight key features that we need specific feedback on, and then everyone can look at the design together, we take notes, and we also use the live stream so everyone can follow along.”Including AR in the design review process not only improves communication but also enhances buy-in from stakeholders. “We are able to get products from the drawing board to market in a short period of time – from large developments with many stakeholders to smaller projects with small groups,” notes Scruggs. By removing the barriers to visualization, AR reduces the number of prototypes needed, thereby lowering costs and minimizing environmental impact. In addition, effective design reviews cultivate company-wide support, reducing the frustration often associated with late-stage design changes. “The ease of use is a critical point, having the backup and support behind it is also a key, and frankly the price point is right for what we need. For us, using Hololight Space is now like turning on a computer. It is second nature to us,” concludes Scruggs.<h2>Use Case 2 – How LNS Group Masters CE Compliance and Risk Assessment Across Borders</h2>Leveraging its global R&amp;D network, LNS usually designs products in one region and manufactures them in another.. The company manages CE compliance from Switzerland with the help of external consultants. This is an important step in the product development process and is often performed, along with a risk assessment, near the end of the prototyping phase.. “Changes – and there are almost always changes – can have a profound impact on the design, cost and overall concept of the product. As a result, compliance assessments introduced later in the process can add significant time to the schedule,” states Jamie Towers, CTO of LNS. “We were looking for a way to do risk assessment earlier in the design process, before we even built a prototype, not only internally but also with our external consultants.”Global Engineering Administrator Brian Scruggs elaborates, “To give an example, we had a project in China with a large machine tool manufacturer where the product would end up in Europe and instead of shipping a product to Switzerland, we decided to use Hololight Space to do a remote risk assessment with our external consultant. We did the risk assessment in Augmented Reality, discovered some changes that needed to be made, and were able to fix the mistakes before we ever built and shipped a product to Europe.” By avoiding shipping, travel, and building a prototype, LNS was able to save $5,000 to $10,000, while significantly reducing the environmental costs associated with building multiple prototype iterations. “We saved at least three months of project time by conducting early risk assessments and avoiding the need for later “patches” to the design,” reports Scruggs. “The result is not only a reduction in time and cost, but also a product that truly meets the practical considerations of the user.”<h2>Use Case 3 – How LNS Group Streamlines Operations Handover with Industrial Augmented Reality</h2>Finally, “handover to operations” is a pivotal moment. It’s the critical transition where all the plans, prototypes, and theoretical work are handed over to the teams that will implement them in the real world. Early involvement of the operations team is a good starting point for a successful handover. However, understanding complex operations from afar often leads to early production problems, and the travel costs of sending experts to different production sites can be significant.. In addition, internal frustration can result from a lack of understanding and cooperation during this crucial transition period, leading to delays and low morale. “I think it’s important to understand that there is usually some form of compromise when design changes are introduced late in the process,” says Scruggs.&nbsp;He adds: “For us, it’s about improving quality down to every sub-assembly. With Hololight Space, our operations teams in different regions can see in Augmented Reality how each assembly is created in real time. They can see the critical points and we can identify where there may be mistakes or confusion; it’s a collaborative effort to get better quality from day one, using immersive technologies to our advantage.” By enabling better collaboration across sites and geographies, AR improves the quality and speed of production ramp-up, ensuring a smoother transition from design to operation. The ability to work remotely with AR technology, especially when multiple international locations are involved, greatly reduces travel-related costs and time. In an era where efficiency and communication are paramount, Hololight Space is proving to be a key tool in transforming the handover of operations into a seamless and streamlined process.<h2>How LNS Group Is Getting User Buy-in and Planning New Use Cases</h2>To successfully integrate Augmented Reality into the product development process and gain user acceptance, Jamie Towers suggests limiting user interaction. &nbsp;“We usually have an AR-trained member in the room to help with the manipulations, and then we hand the glasses over to the user to just experience the design in AR. There are some people who are never fully comfortable until they actually have something in their hands. But overall, our people are definitely impressed with the technology. They see the value in the technology.”And the next project is just around the corner. “We’re investing in immersive technologies, and it’s natural to keep using them. This time we made a prototype with one configuration, and we’re going to use Hololight Space to show our customer a second, completely different configuration without having to produce a second prototype. Wherever we can find an advantage, we will use immersive technologies to optimize our product development lifecycle,” concludes Towers.Want to try Hololight Space for yourself? <a href="https://hololight.com/hololight-space-demo/" target="_blank">Contact us for a free trial.</a>

LNS Group, is using immersive technologies throughout its product development cycles. The company is reducing time-to-market by 3 months and saving $5,000 to $10,000 per prototype while improving product quality.


Industrial Augmented Reality-Driven Product Development Evolution

<h2 id="isPasted">New whitepaper: How Augmented Reality is redefining product development.</h2>Augmented Reality (AR) is not just a tool; it's a transformative force that is reshaping many processes in business. Production companies, in particular, benefit from AR because they can leverage its benefits along their entire value chain, from product development to manufacturing, logistics, marketing, customer service, and employee training.&nbsp;In the recent white paper from HoloLight, 'AR as a Booster for Industry 4.0,' you can explore the ways in which AR can have a significant transformative impact.&nbsp;Key highlights of the whitepaper:<ul><li dir="ltr">Learn how companies can use AR to increase the quality and productivity of their entire process chain</li><li dir="ltr">Understand what a consistent Augmented Reality strategy can look like and how to implement one.</li><li dir="ltr">Discover how well-known companies are already successfully using AR through detailed case studies.&nbsp;</li></ul>Don't miss out on these valuable insights. Get your copy of the white paper now by filling out the simple form below.&nbsp;<img src="https://images.wevolver.com/eyJidWNrZXQiOiJ3ZXZvbHZlci1wcm9qZWN0LWltYWdlcyIsImtleSI6ImZyb2FsYS8xNzIzMDIwNjEwNDc5LWhvbG9saWdodCB3aGl0ZSBwYXBlci5wbmciLCJlZGl0cyI6eyJyZXNpemUiOnsid2lkdGgiOjk1MCwiZml0IjoiY292ZXIifX19" style="width: 100%px;" class="fr-fic fr-dib"><iframe id="JotFormIFrame-241713238748360" title="Hololight Form" allowtransparency="true" src="https://form.jotform.com/241713238748360" frameborder="0" style="min-width: 100%; max-width: 100%; height: 380px; border: none;" scrolling="no" class="fr-draggable" data-lf-form-tracking-inspected-kn9eq4roawkarlvp="true" data-lf-yt-playback-inspected-kn9eq4roawkarlvp="true" data-lf-vimeo-playback-inspected-kn9eq4roawkarlvp="true"> </iframe>“It’s just a gimmick for large projects. We don’t need anything from another galaxy to operate our plant”. Tobias Bauchrowitz, Head of Engineering at Bilfinger Engineering &amp; Maintenance, is familiar with the prejudices that new technologies like augmented reality often encounter: “I sensed that customers were a bit skeptical at first, but then the visualization usually speaks for itself.”&nbsp;With over 3,000 employees, Bilfinger Engineering &amp; Maintenance GmbH plans, maintains, repairs, and monitors plants in the process industry. The company is an industrial services market leader and a pioneer in the digitalization and optimization of processes for customers and the workforce.<blockquote>“Our aim is to meet customer needs and to provide decision-makers with the right information. Especially in the engineering sector, we saw a lot of potential for making planning and development processes more customer-friendly and efficient with augmented reality.” &nbsp;</blockquote>- Tobias Bauchrowitz, Leiter Engineering bei Bilfinger Engineering &amp; Maintenance<h1 dir="ltr">Requirements for AR Software</h1>Bilfinger Engineering &amp; Maintenance had been traditionally developing 3D models with its stakeholders and customers for new construction, conversion or plant modernization projects, either directly in the CAD software or via 3D PDF. “If 3D models are mapped on a two-dimensional plane, the spatial understanding can be deceptive, especially if the stakeholders rarely deal with 3D models,” Bauchrowitz says. The 1:1 scale and the comparison with reality were still missing. In many cases, the digital plans differed from reality in that the smallest details in the plant could not be planned correctly from the start – for example, whether a valve would be accessible at the planned location.&nbsp;It is important for the engineering manager to be able to visualize models in their original size and to have the flexibility to place them at the point of use. Other requirements for an Augmented Reality solution were that the software is easy to use, that CAD data (e.g., FBX, OBJ) can be imported smoothly, and that the entire model hierarchy can be mapped and manipulated – both in single and multi-user mode. After a multi-stage selection process with various solution providers, Bilfinger Engineering &amp; Maintenance finally chose Hololight’s Hololight Space AR software.<h1 dir="ltr">Augmented Reality for Engineers</h1>The Hololight Space AR engineering application allows engineers and industrial designers to visualize 3D CAD models in their original size as holograms via AR glasses, to merge these models with real components and to edit them in a real environment ­– at the target location. By bringing virtual content into reality, the software bridges the gap between virtual planning and what is ultimately real. “A plant is an investment. Customers want to know what they’re getting from us, right from the start,” Bauchrowitz says.&nbsp;“By visualizing true-to-scale 3D models in the actual plant as holograms, we can provide all stakeholders with a better understanding of the plant before it is constructed, while also creating a real wow effect.” Tobias Bauchrowitz, Leiter Engineering bei Bilfinger Engineering &amp; MaintenanceIn Hololight Space, 3D models can be instantly adapted to new situations on-site by adding QR codes. Users can individually select components from the hierarchy, move, rotate, and scale objects, and collaborate on virtual designs using the meeting function. All changes to the digital object can be saved and added later in the CAD system.&nbsp;“At the destination, we merge the virtual and real worlds, check space constraints, and can easily include on-site personnel such as the plant operator for feedback. The use of different perspectives helps us prevent potential complications or errors,”&nbsp;Bauchrowitz adds. “One feature we’re using more and more is to lay out cutting planes in real time to highlight and examine certain angles.”<img src="https://images.wevolver.com/eyJidWNrZXQiOiJ3ZXZvbHZlci1wcm9qZWN0LWltYWdlcyIsImtleSI6ImZyb2FsYS8xNzIzMDIwMjI5MTI3LWhvbG9saWdodCBiaWxpLmpwZyIsImVkaXRzIjp7InJlc2l6ZSI6eyJ3aWR0aCI6OTUwLCJmaXQiOiJjb3ZlciJ9fX0=" style="width: 100%px;" class="fr-fic fr-dib"><h1 dir="ltr">AR as a Key Technology&nbsp;</h1>Visualizing virtual designs at the intended location aids in planning and developing installations. It helps identify errors more quickly, gets stakeholders involved from the beginning, and reduces costs by streamlining decision-making and iterations. Engineers and customers can collaborate in Augmented Reality to sketch, discuss, and refine designs and ideas, which allows customers to assess if the system meets their on-site requirements and enables experts to plan and develop more efficiently.<blockquote>“Our goal is to make greater use of the AR solution within the Group. The potential of Augmented Reality to win over stakeholders and increase customer satisfaction is enormous.” - Tobias Bauchrowitz, Leiter Engineering bei Bilfinger Engineering &amp; Maintenance</blockquote>Learn more about how AR can have a significant transformative impact on production, customer service and collaboration. Download the latest whitepaper from Hololight below.&nbsp;<iframe id="JotFormIFrame-241713238748360" title="Hololight Form" allowtransparency="true" src="https://form.jotform.com/241713238748360" frameborder="0" style="min-width: 100%; max-width: 100%; height: 380px; border: none;" scrolling="no" class="fr-draggable" data-lf-yt-playback-inspected-kn9eq4roawkarlvp="true" data-lf-form-tracking-inspected-kn9eq4roawkarlvp="true" data-lf-vimeo-playback-inspected-kn9eq4roawkarlvp="true"> </iframe>

Bilfinger Engineering & Maintenance has been effectively utilizing Augmented Reality (AR) in industrial plant engineering since 2019. AR enables seamless integration of customers and stakeholders into the design process, preventing costly errors in the early stages.

Enhancing decision-making processes in plant design through the use of augmented reality (AR)

In this episode, we discuss how BMW is leveraging augmented reality to design, manufacture, and service cars faster using Microsoft’s HoloLens glasses and a cloud based computer design solution called Hololight.

Podcast: BMW Makes Cars Faster With Augmented Reality

<h2 id="isPasted">New whitepaper: How Augmented Reality is redefining product development.</h2>Augmented Reality (AR) is not just a tool; it's a transformative force that is reshaping many processes in business. Production companies, in particular, benefit from AR because they can leverage its benefits along their entire value chain, from product development to manufacturing, logistics, marketing, customer service, and employee training.&nbsp;In the recent white paper from HoloLight, 'AR as a Booster for Industry 4.0,' you can explore the ways in which AR can have a significant transformative impact.&nbsp;Key highlights of the whitepaper:<ul><li dir="ltr">Learn how companies can use AR to increase the quality and productivity of their entire process chain</li><li dir="ltr">Understand what a consistent Augmented Reality strategy can look like and how to implement one.</li><li dir="ltr">Discover how well-known companies are already successfully using AR through detailed case studies.&nbsp;</li></ul>Don't miss out on these valuable insights. Get your copy of the white paper now by filling out the simple form below.&nbsp; <iframe id="JotFormIFrame-241713238748360" title="Hololight Form" allowtransparency="true" src="https://form.jotform.com/241713238748360" frameborder="0" style="min-width: 100%; max-width: 100%; height: 750px; border: none;" scrolling="no" class="fr-draggable" data-lf-form-tracking-inspected-kn9eq4roawkarlvp="true" data-lf-yt-playback-inspected-kn9eq4roawkarlvp="true" data-lf-vimeo-playback-inspected-kn9eq4roawkarlvp="true"> </iframe><h2 id="isPasted">Embracing innovation</h2>ENGIE Refrigeration, a global specialist in products, solutions and services for economic and energy efficient refrigeration and heat generation, uses Hololight Space to create efficient workflows and facilitate machine design.<a href="https://www.engie-refrigeration.de/en" target="_blank">ENGIE Refrigeration</a> was looking for a way to better visualize and coordinate work steps in real time to reduce iterations in product development. The company needed a convenient and easy-to-use solution to visualize large and complex machines in detail and in 3D without time-consuming data preparation or conversion.&nbsp;To meet these challenges, Jörn Stiegelmeier, Head of Technology &amp; Development, first came up with the idea of using AR glasses in 2017, at a time when AR in the refrigeration and heating industry was still a vision of the future. Today, the company is a global pioneer in the industry when it comes to AR.AR headsets and the corresponding applications augment the real world with digital content ranging from information and animations to complex 3D models. They allow users to interact with this content using hand recognition sensors and to overlay it on the physical world – all while still perceiving their environment with all their senses.&nbsp;To get the right AR application for their needs, ENGIE Refrigeration partnered with XR expert Hololight and is now using the XR Engineering application <a href="https://hololight.com/products/hololight-space-enduser-application/" target="_blank">Hololight Space</a>.&nbsp;“The cooperation with Hololight is always constructive, friendly, and goal-oriented. My ideas are well received, and the team considers and implements them according to our individual requirements,”&nbsp;says Stiegelmeier.<h1 dir="ltr">Improving Workflows With Hololight Space</h1>Hololight Space significantly improves complex work processes along the value chain, such as machine design. The application allows users to visualize models, such as prototypes, as 3D holograms that are seamlessly generated from the original CAD file without the need to modify the data.&nbsp;ENGIE Refrigeration is using Microsoft HoloLens 2 as the end device for the application. Hololight Space allows the models to be displayed at their actual size and with the same level of detail as the CAD file. Engineers, technicians, and anyone involved in the workflow can get a detailed 3D view of the external and internal structure of the object. They can extract individual components from the full-scale model, use X-ray mode and other features to gain greater insight, take measurements, and make annotations. In multi-user sessions, they can collaborate with others on the same model in real-time, regardless of location.Visualization and collaboration via Hololight Space improve understanding of the object or machine, reveal new opportunities for optimization, and reduce development loops. Engineers can identify potential weaknesses early in the product development and design process and eliminate them faster.Jörn Stiegelmeier is convinced of the benefits of the application:&nbsp;“Until now, we have only used AR glasses sporadically in development. Now we have reached the point where we are gradually integrating them into our daily work. ENGIE Refrigeration is a global pioneer in our industry when it comes to AR. And that’s something we’re proud of.”<h1 dir="ltr">Streaming for a Flawless and Secure AR Experience</h1>In the case of ENGIE Refrigeration, as a company that works with detailed CAD data, data models are usually very large and complex due to the dimensions of the various plants.. In addition, data security cannot be neglected. Hololight Space helps ENGIE meet both challenges thanks to its integrated remote rendering solution. The application and the holograms are streamed from a local server to the end device.The data never leaves ENGIE Refrigeration’s IT infrastructure, which guarantees absolute data security. In addition, streaming ensures that all users are using the latest version of the application.<img src="https://images.wevolver.com/eyJidWNrZXQiOiJ3ZXZvbHZlci1wcm9qZWN0LWltYWdlcyIsImtleSI6ImZyb2FsYS8xNzIxOTEzNTYyMTA3LUdhYnJpZWxlMl9zaW1vbnRvcGxha19jb21faG9sb2xpZ2h0X1NUTzM5NzgtY29weS0xMDI0eDY4My5qcGciLCJlZGl0cyI6eyJyZXNpemUiOnsid2lkdGgiOjk1MCwiZml0IjoiY292ZXIifX19" style="width: 790px;" class="fr-fic fr-dib">AR can help optimize engineering workflows. (photo: Hololight)<h2 dir="ltr" id="isPasted">Customer Value and Improved Sustainability</h2>ENGIE Refrigeration customers benefit from machines that run more efficiently than ever before. AR glasses make it possible to identify potential weaknesses at an early stage of development and to eliminate them even faster.&nbsp;Moreover, AR is another step in transitioning to ‘zero carbon. “With AR glasses, we may be able to avoid service calls in the future. In addition, unnecessary development loops can be reduced. This saves valuable resources such as CO2 and electricity,” says Stiegelmeier.<h1 dir="ltr">Looking Ahead to an Even More Immersive Future</h1>In addition to technology and development at ENGIE Refrigeration, Stiegelmeier points out that there are other areas where AR glasses could be used. “I am thinking of production, for example, to be able to project the first prototypes in advance. In my opinion, augmented reality will also facilitate service and logistics work. In addition, third-level support will be able to support our on-site service even better in the future with the help of AR technologies. From now on, we will be working more closely on such approaches. Also, we are currently working with Hololight on an intelligent solution for predictive maintenance to provide our customers with an even more efficient service in the future.” His plans are enthusiastic and determined: “There will be more to come from ENGIE Refrigeration in terms of Augmented Reality.”Learn more about how AR can have a significant transformative impact on production, customer service and collaboration. Download the latest whitepaper from Hololight below.&nbsp;<iframe id="JotFormIFrame-241713238748360" title="Hololight Form" allowtransparency="true" src="https://form.jotform.com/241713238748360" frameborder="0" style="min-width: 100%; max-width: 100%; height: 380px; border: none;" scrolling="no" class="fr-draggable" data-lf-form-tracking-inspected-kn9eq4roawkarlvp="true" data-lf-vimeo-playback-inspected-kn9eq4roawkarlvp="true" data-lf-yt-playback-inspected-kn9eq4roawkarlvp="true">&nbsp;&nbsp; </iframe>

ENGIE Refrigeration, a global specialist in products, solutions and services for economic and energy efficient refrigeration and heat generation, uses Hololight Space to create efficient workflows and facilitate machine design.

Augmented Reality (AR) helps create efficient workflows and streamlines machine design.

This article was discussed in our <a href="https://www.wevolver.com/profile/the.next.byte" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Next Byte podcast</a>.&nbsp;<iframe height="200px" width="100%" frameborder="no" scrolling="no" seamless="" src="https://player.simplecast.com/6d409fb4-f5fe-4b00-bc93-dd1a226c63ed?dark=false" class="fr-draggable" data-gtm-yt-inspected-23="true" data-lf-form-tracking-inspected-kn9eq4roawkarlvp="true" data-lf-yt-playback-inspected-kn9eq4roawkarlvp="true" data-lf-vimeo-playback-inspected-kn9eq4roawkarlvp="true" data-gtm-yt-inspected-24="true"></iframe> The full article will continue below.<table style="width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td style="width: 100%;"><h2>New whitepaper: AR as a Booster for Industry 4.0,</h2>In the recent white paper from HoloLight, 'AR as a Booster for Industry 4.0,' you can explore the ways in which AR can have a significant transformative impact.&nbsp;Key highlights of the whitepaper:<ul><li dir="ltr">Learn how companies can use AR to increase the quality and productivity of their entire process chain</li><li dir="ltr">Understand what a consistent Augmented Reality strategy can look like and how to implement one.</li><li dir="ltr">Discover how well-known companies are already successfully using AR through detailed case studies.&nbsp;</li></ul>Don't miss out on these valuable insights. Get your copy of the white paper now by filling out the simple form below.&nbsp;<iframe id="JotFormIFrame-241713238748360" title="Hololight Form" allowtransparency="true" src="https://form.jotform.com/241713238748360" frameborder="0" style="min-width: 100%; max-width: 100%; height: 380px; border: none;" scrolling="no" class="fr-draggable" data-lf-form-tracking-inspected-kn9eq4roawkarlvp="true" data-lf-yt-playback-inspected-kn9eq4roawkarlvp="true" data-lf-vimeo-playback-inspected-kn9eq4roawkarlvp="true" data-gtm-yt-inspected-23="true" data-gtm-yt-inspected-24="true">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </iframe></td></tr></tbody></table>In a quest to redefine automotive prototyping and concept evaluation, BMW Group has embraced cutting-edge augmented reality (AR) technology at its Munich headquarters.Running on Microsoft´s <a href="https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/hololens" target="_blank">HoloLens 2</a> data goggles, the AR Engineering Software Hololight Space from Hololight allows real geometries—on a vehicle body, for instance – to be overlaid with true-to-scale holographic 3D models. Thus, a range of concept variants and assembly processes for future series vehicles can be assessed flexibly and cost-efficiently.<h3 dir="ltr">Vehicle Concepts Visualized in 3D</h3>Vehicles and their components are visualized via the AR Software Hololight Space, which is linked to the BMW Group’s product data management system. The integrated remote rendering technology <a href="https://hololight.com/products/hololight-stream-software-development-kit/" target="_blank">Hololight Stream</a> enables streaming of the entire AR application. This means that the computing power does not have to come from the AR glasses themselves, but can be provided from the cloud or a high-performance, own controlled server. The data also never resides on the mobile device. A crucial security feature in the event of loss of the glasses or hacker attacks.<iframe width="640" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/JA7pixCQCCw?&amp;wmode=opaque&amp;rel=0&amp;enablejsapi=1&amp;origin=https://www.wevolver.com" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="" class="fr-draggable" data-lf-form-tracking-inspected-kn9eq4roawkarlvp="true" data-lf-yt-playback-inspected-kn9eq4roawkarlvp="true" data-lf-vimeo-playback-inspected-kn9eq4roawkarlvp="true" data-gtm-yt-inspected-23="true" id="940844127" title="Case Study: BMW Group - Virtual Prototyping | Hololight Space" data-gtm-yt-inspected-24="true">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</iframe>In the new workflow, the vehicle expert loads CAD files of components from the web-based database into the Hololight Space application. Using AR glasses, he can visualize the CAD data in 3D and their original size in a realistic environment. The AR application is controlled by hand, allowing direct interaction with virtual components.&nbsp;With the AR application, a simple hand movement is enough to modify not only the size but also the position and angle of components. In addition, cross-sections can be created in real time to provide a view of the vehicle’s inner structures. Another advantage is the ability to work collaboratively. People at different locations around the world can now employ multi-user mode to team up and review designs and concepts together, as well as identify any errors.<h2 dir="ltr">Newly Gained Efficiency Factor with Augmented Reality</h2>Using true-to-scale visualization and interaction with concepts and prototypes previously created in CAD programs, engineers can now immediately understand the accessibility, installation options, and visibility of relevant assembly points in complex systems. Above all, the superimposition of real geometry with holographic 3D models enables them to evaluate different variants of a concept in minutes. The BMW Group has thus achieved time savings of up to one year on vehicle module validation.<img src="https://images.wevolver.com/eyJidWNrZXQiOiJ3ZXZvbHZlci1wcm9qZWN0LWltYWdlcyIsImtleSI6ImZyb2FsYS8xNzIxNzQ1MDQxMzM3LVA5MDQwMDE4OV9oaWdoUmVzX2F1Z21lbnRlZC1yZWFsLmpwZyIsImVkaXRzIjp7InJlc2l6ZSI6eyJ3aWR0aCI6OTUwLCJmaXQiOiJjb3ZlciJ9fX0=" style="width: 100%px;" class="fr-fic fr-dib">Holograms can be overlaid with real geometry (Copyright BMW Group).<h2 dir="ltr">How Hololight Space can significantly benefit the automotive industry.</h2><h3 dir="ltr">Prototyping and Design</h3>Enhanced Visualization and Interaction: AR/VR technologies allow engineers and designers to create and interact with high-fidelity 3D models of vehicle components and assemblies. This capability enables a comprehensive evaluation of design elements, fit, and ergonomics without the need for physical prototypes. For example, designers can view and manipulate a digital twin of a car interior to assess user experience, identify potential issues, and make real-time adjustments. This not only accelerates the design process but also improves the overall quality and innovation of the vehicle design.<h3 dir="ltr">Time and Cost Savings</h3>Reduction of Development Cycles: Implementing AR/VR in the automotive industry can significantly cut down the time required for vehicle concept validation. Traditional prototyping involves multiple iterations of physical models, which is both time-consuming and expensive. AR/VR allows for rapid iterations and instant feedback, facilitating quicker decision-making and reducing the overall development cycle. BMW, for instance, reported that using AR/VR reduced their concept validation time by up to a year, translating to substantial cost savings and a faster time-to-market for new models.<h3 dir="ltr">Enhanced Collaboration</h3>Real-Time Remote Collaboration: AR/VR platforms enable seamless collaboration between geographically dispersed teams. Engineers, designers, and stakeholders can simultaneously access and interact with the same virtual prototype, discuss modifications, and make collective decisions in real time. This collaborative environment reduces the chances of miscommunication and errors that often occur in traditional workflows. Additionally, it fosters innovation by allowing diverse teams to contribute their expertise, ensuring that the final product benefits from a wide range of insights and perspectives.<h3 dir="ltr">Training and Maintenance</h3>Immersive Training Experiences: AR/VR technologies provide highly immersive and interactive training modules for automotive technicians and assembly line workers. Trainees can practice assembly, repair, and maintenance tasks in a virtual environment that closely mimics real-world scenarios. This hands-on experience enhances learning and retention, making technicians more proficient and reducing the likelihood of mistakes. Furthermore, AR/VR training can be tailored to different skill levels, ensuring that all employees receive the appropriate level of instruction and can perform their tasks efficiently.<h3 dir="ltr">The latest whitepaper from Hololight explains the impact of AR on the future of manufacturing and production. &nbsp;Get access now via the form below.&nbsp;</h3><iframe id="JotFormIFrame-241713238748360" title="Hololight Form" allowtransparency="true" src="https://form.jotform.com/241713238748360" frameborder="0" style="min-width: 100%; max-width: 100%; height: 380px; border: none;" scrolling="no" class="fr-draggable" data-lf-form-tracking-inspected-kn9eq4roawkarlvp="true" data-lf-yt-playback-inspected-kn9eq4roawkarlvp="true" data-lf-vimeo-playback-inspected-kn9eq4roawkarlvp="true" data-gtm-yt-inspected-23="true" data-gtm-yt-inspected-24="true">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </iframe>

BMW Group has embraced augmented reality (AR) technology at its Munich headquarters to redefine automotive prototyping and concept evaluation


BMW accelerates concept evaluations with  industrial augmented reality and virtual reality

Augmented Reality (AR) is not just a tool; it's a transformative force that is reshaping many processes in business. Production companies, in particular, benefit from AR because they can leverage its benefits along their entire value chain, from product development to manufacturing, logistics, marketing, customer service, and employee training.&nbsp;In the recent white paper from HoloLight, 'AR as a Booster for Industry 4.0,' you can explore the ways in which AR can have a significant transformative impact.&nbsp;Key highlights of the whitepaper:<ul><li dir="ltr">Learn how companies can use AR to increase the quality and productivity of their entire process chain</li><li dir="ltr">Understand what a consistent Augmented Reality strategy can look like and how to implement one.</li><li dir="ltr">Discover how well-known companies are already successfully using AR through detailed case studies.&nbsp;</li></ul>Don't miss out on these valuable insights. Get your copy of the white paper now by filling out the simple form below.&nbsp;<img src="https://images.wevolver.com/eyJidWNrZXQiOiJ3ZXZvbHZlci1wcm9qZWN0LWltYWdlcyIsImtleSI6ImZyb2FsYS8xNzIxNzIyNTQyMjk2LWhvbG9saWdodCB3aGl0ZSBwYXBlciAoMSkucG5nIiwiZWRpdHMiOnsicmVzaXplIjp7IndpZHRoIjo5NTAsImZpdCI6ImNvdmVyIn19fQ==" style="width: 100%px;" class="fr-fic fr-dib"><iframe id="JotFormIFrame-241713238748360" title="Hololight Form" allowtransparency="true" src="https://form.jotform.com/241713238748360" frameborder="0" style="min-width: 100%; max-width: 100%; height: 380px; border: none;" scrolling="no" class="fr-draggable" data-lf-form-tracking-inspected-kn9eq4roawkarlvp="true" data-lf-vimeo-playback-inspected-kn9eq4roawkarlvp="true" data-lf-yt-playback-inspected-kn9eq4roawkarlvp="true">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </iframe><hr>Augmented Reality (AR) presents significant opportunities to revolutionize existing processes across industries. Despite our three-dimensional physical world, most data is two-dimensional, constrained to screens, creating a gap between the real and digital realms. AR effectively bridges this gap by overlaying digital data onto physical objects and environments, placing information directly within its application context. This integration enhances the assimilation, understanding, and targeted processing of information.AR is poised to become a continuous interface between humans and machines across various sectors. While many consumers are familiar with AR through entertainment applications, its potential in business and industry is even more transformative. Forward-thinking companies are already leveraging AR throughout the industrial value chain, including product development, manufacturing, logistics, marketing, service, and training. This technology is driving significant improvements in quality and productivity across these domains.In practice, AR enhances how users visualize information, follow instructions, and interact with products. Moving forward, the strategic application of AR will be pivotal for companies aiming to maintain competitive market positions. Integrating AR into business strategies and processes is crucial, and companies must explore AR’s full potential and evaluate its impact on customers, products, and the entire value chain.<img src="https://images.wevolver.com/eyJidWNrZXQiOiJ3ZXZvbHZlci1wcm9qZWN0LWltYWdlcyIsImtleSI6ImZyb2FsYS8xNzIxNzIxMzgyMjk4LUdhYnJpZWxlMl9zaW1vbnRvcGxha19jb21faG9sb2xpZ2h0X1NUTzM5NzgtY29weS0xMDI0eDY4My5qcGciLCJlZGl0cyI6eyJyZXNpemUiOnsid2lkdGgiOjk1MCwiZml0IjoiY292ZXIifX19" style="width: 100%px;" class="fr-fic fr-dib"><h3>Developing an Effective Augmented Reality Strategy for Companies</h3>A well-conceived Augmented Reality strategy is essential for companies aiming to harness its benefits. Companies should determine how AR can support the differentiation of their product and service offerings. For instance, AR can enhance product features and provide customers with more information, thereby increasing customer retention and loyalty. Additionally, AR can improve product user-friendliness, support services, and provide valuable feedback on product usage, offering insights for further development.<h3>Internal Expertise vs. External Partnerships in AR Development</h3>Companies must decide whether to develop in-house AR expertise or collaborate with external partners. While qualified AR specialists are scarce, having knowledge in user experience and user interface design (UX/UI), digital modeling, and AR content management is crucial. Establishing specialized teams to develop and maintain AR content can be beneficial.However, despite many companies developing their AR expertise, they often underutilize the technology’s full potential. Managers frequently face the decision of whether to hire and train AR staff or to engage with specialized software and service providers. Investing in AR specialists as strategic assets makes sense when AR is central to a business strategy. Conversely, for companies where AR is important but not critical, partnering with external providers can be more practical. Developing comprehensive AR technologies involves significant challenges, time, and costs.Initially, limited AR technology and service providers led many companies to rely on in-house capabilities. Today, the market has expanded with vendors offering turnkey AR solutions, making it increasingly difficult for companies to keep pace with advancements. Therefore, strategic decisions regarding AR development and implementation are paramount for leveraging its full potential and ensuring competitive advantage.<h3 id="isPasted">Partnering with HoloLight for Augmented Reality Success</h3>Given the complexities and strategic importance of implementing AR, choosing the right partner is crucial. HoloLight stands out for companies looking to harness the full potential of AR technology. With a strong focus on industrial applications, HoloLight offers cutting-edge solutions that enhance product development, manufacturing, and maintenance processes. Their expertise in creating immersive AR experiences ensures that digital information is seamlessly integrated into the physical world, providing users with intuitive and effective tools.HoloLight's comprehensive suite of AR products and services, including their high-performance streaming technology and user-friendly development environment, enables companies to accelerate their AR projects while maintaining high standards of quality and efficiency. By partnering with HoloLight, businesses can leverage advanced AR capabilities to improve productivity, optimize workflows, and gain a competitive edge in the market.Learn more about the impact AR can have on business and engineering processes in the whitepaper, 'AR as a Booster for Industry 4.0.'&nbsp;Download here:<iframe id="JotFormIFrame-241713238748360" title="Hololight Form" allowtransparency="true" src="https://form.jotform.com/241713238748360" frameborder="0" style="min-width: 100%; max-width: 100%; height: 380px; border: none;" scrolling="no" class="fr-draggable" data-lf-form-tracking-inspected-kn9eq4roawkarlvp="true" data-lf-yt-playback-inspected-kn9eq4roawkarlvp="true" data-lf-vimeo-playback-inspected-kn9eq4roawkarlvp="true">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </iframe>

New whitepaper: How Augmented Reality is redefining
product development.

Augmented Reality as a Booster for Industry 4.0

The utilization of advanced 3D vision technology is critical in pushing the boundaries of robotic capabilities, especially in challenging environments such as space. Extend Robotics, dedicated to making robotic operations more accessible through extended reality technology, embarked on a comparative evaluation of 3D vision solutions to enhance their robotic interface software. This comprehensive test aimed to identify the most suitable 3D camera for demanding applications, including those required in extra-terrestrial conditions.&nbsp;Partner:<a href="https://www.extendrobotics.com/" target="_blank">Extend Robotics</a>&nbsp;Challenge:Extend Robotics aims to address the global skill mismatch caused by automation by making robotic arm programming more accessible. Their mission is to enable non-robotic experts to operate robots remotely using extended reality technology (MR/VR/AR). In their latest exploration project, they sought to demonstrate their technology’s capability to remove and replace satellite modules in a 27U CubeSat at the Catapult test facility for In-Orbit Service and Manufacturing. This project was part of their incubation with the European Space Agency’s Business Incubation Centre (ESA BIC UK).To achieve their goals, Extend Robotics needed a 3D vision solution that could handle extreme and challenging environments, including those found in space. They conducted a comparative test between three different 3D cameras to select the optimal hardware for these demanding applications.&nbsp;Solution:<a href="https://www.photoneo.com/motioncam-3d/" target="_blank">MotionCam-3D Color</a>Extend Robotics conducted extensive testing to evaluate the performance of Photoneo’s MotionCam-3D Color against other 3D cameras. The MotionCam-3D Color was tested under extreme light conditions, including a 5,000 watt light simulating the brightness of the sun in space. The camera’s ability to deliver high-resolution 3D scans in both extremely bright and pitch black conditions set it apart from its competitors.The MotionCam-3D Color utilizes Photoneo’s advanced Parallel Structured Light technology, which ensures unparalleled accuracy regardless of environmental light levels. This capability is crucial for space applications where lighting conditions can vary dramatically.By leveraging the MotionCam-3D Color, Extend Robotics can create precise and accurate 3D models necessary for their remote robotic operations. The model is projected in the virtual headset of the operator who can interact with it. This solution not only enhances the safety and efficiency of their technology but also enables the execution of physical tasks remotely, overcoming geographical limitations.<img src="https://s3-us-west-1.amazonaws.com/wevolver-project-images/froala%2F1720524677538-1720524677538.png" alt="" width="400" height="180" srcset="https://www.photoneo.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Extend_BLOG2-400x180.jpg 400w, https://www.photoneo.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Extend_BLOG2-1024x461.jpg 1024w, https://www.photoneo.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Extend_BLOG2-768x346.jpg 768w, https://www.photoneo.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Extend_BLOG2-1536x692.jpg 1536w, https://www.photoneo.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Extend_BLOG2-2048x922.jpg 2048w, https://www.photoneo.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Extend_BLOG2-480x216.jpg 480w" sizes="(max-width: 400px) 100vw, 400px" class="fr-fic fr-dii">Discussion:The integration of Photoneo’s MotionCam-3D Color into Extend Robotics’ system marks a significant advancement in remote robotic operations. The high-precision 3D vision capabilities of the MotionCam-3D Color allow for detailed scanning and modeling, which are essential for complex tasks such as satellite servicing.This collaboration highlights the importance of selecting the right 3D vision technology for demanding applications. Photoneo’s MotionCam-3D Color has proven to be the optimal solution for Extend Robotics, enabling them to push the boundaries of what’s possible in automation and robotics.Would you like to discuss how Photoneo technology can benefit your applications? <a href="https://www.photoneo.com/contact-us/?utm_source=Wevolver&utm_medium=Case%20Study&utm_campaign=Extending%20Robotics%20Capabilities%20in%20Space%20with%20Photoneo's%20MotionCam-3D%20Color" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Contact us</a> to explore how our advanced 3D vision solutions can enhance your projects.

Extending Robotics Capabilities in Space with Photoneo's MotionCam-3D Color

Extend Robotics leveraged Photoneo’s MotionCam-3D Color for its exceptional 3D vision technology, enabling precise remote operations in challenging environments like space. This innovative solution enhances robotic capabilities, allowing for high-resolution scans under extreme conditions.

<table style="width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td style="width: 100%;"><h2> New whitepaper: AR as a Booster for Industry 4.0</h2>Augmented Reality (AR) is not just a tool; it's a transformative force that is reshaping many processes in business. Production companies, in particular, benefit from AR because they can leverage its benefits along their entire value chain, from product development to manufacturing, logistics, marketing, customer service, and employee training.&nbsp;In the recent white paper from HoloLight, 'AR as a Booster for Industry 4.0,' you can explore the ways in which AR can have a significant transformative impact.&nbsp;Key highlights of the whitepaper:<ul><li dir="ltr">Learn how companies can use AR to increase the quality and productivity of their entire process chain</li><li dir="ltr">Understand what a consistent Augmented Reality strategy can look like and how to implement one.</li><li dir="ltr">Discover how well-known companies are already successfully using AR through detailed case studies.&nbsp;</li></ul>Don't miss out on these valuable insights. Get your copy of the white paper now by filling out the simple form below.&nbsp; <iframe id="JotFormIFrame-241713238748360" title="Hololight Form" allowtransparency="true" src="https://form.jotform.com/241713238748360" frameborder="0" style="min-width: 100%; max-width: 100%; height: 380px; border: none;" scrolling="no" class="fr-draggable" data-lf-form-tracking-inspected-kn9eq4roawkarlvp="true" data-lf-yt-playback-inspected-kn9eq4roawkarlvp="true" data-lf-vimeo-playback-inspected-kn9eq4roawkarlvp="true">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </iframe></td></tr></tbody></table>How can Augmented Reality (AR) enhance business operations? Is it beneficial for small to mid-sized companies?In the midst of a global pandemic, Tipteh, a machine builder and system integrator based in Belgrade, Serbia, began exploring how immersive technologies could facilitate collaboration among its engineers and engage with customers while adhering to social distancing measures.AR has the potential to assist small—to mid-sized businesses in various ways, from collaboration to faster design cycles to encouraging new ideas and methods of working. In this article, we showcase how one European machine builder managed all three by using Hololight solutions.&nbsp;<h2 dir="ltr">A New Way of Engineering</h2>Tipteh is an industrial automation specialist with about 90 employees and more than 4000 customers worldwide. The team faces the constant challenge of creating effective and efficient solutions quickly. The road from an idea to a real machine that will fulfill customer needs and requests is very complex and often involves many iterations.“To avoid extra costs and save time, we needed a tool that would give our designers a complete insight into the machine design through a real 3D view,’ explains Mileta Vracar, Development Manager Engineering at Tipteh.&nbsp;In order to meet Tipteh´s high standards for its engineering process, the collaboration solution they were looking for also needed to be able to visualize as many details as possible to help engineers collaborate on the 3D model with no errors or misunderstandings. It was essential to fulfill all ergonomic requirements during the designing phase. “Especially because we were in the time of a global pandemic we were reliant on an innovative solution to collaborate without traveling, while saving time and resources. We liked Hololight Space instantly when we tried it,” Vracar further comments.<h2 dir="ltr">Faster Design Times with AR</h2>The Hololight Space now enhances collaboration and synchronization within Tipteh´s industrial designer team. When designing complex machines with 3D CAD tools engineers sometimes struggle to picture the design in their minds and understand the real dimensions and positions. With robot-based solutions, these challenges are getting even harder. Perfect designs with zero errors or problems become a necessity to keep the engineering process efficient. Engineers need to see how all the parts are fitted in a real 3D environment.&nbsp;With <a href="https://hololight.com/products/hololight-space-enduser-application/" target="_blank">Hololight Space</a> the engineers are looking at how designed parts are fitted together and if there are potential problems. Understanding all aspects of the 3D model helps to recognize any mistake or problem early on and prevents costly errors in production or machine failures. Checking safety requirements and ergonomic issues during the designing process by experts in the field is also very important. Same as preparing the installation team so they can build the machine in the fastest and most efficient way.<h3 dir="ltr">Incorporating Clients and Business Partners</h3>Incorporating clients and business partners into the design process through Augmented Reality (AR) can significantly enhance collaboration and satisfaction. AR tools allow engineers to present design concepts in a highly interactive and immersive manner, making it easier for clients to visualize and understand complex projects. This technology enables real-time feedback and iterative design improvements, ensuring that client requirements are met accurately.&nbsp;Tipteh uses Hololight Space to show customers and partners design concepts in progress. Engineers and customers jointly sketch, discuss and further develop designs or ideas in Augmented Reality.&nbsp;<blockquote>“Hololight Space helps collaboration and coordination in our design team and we avoid costly errors before production. We also needed to incorporate our partners in the designing process to actively present stages during specific machine designs.” - Mileta Vracar, Development Manager Engineering at Tipteh</blockquote>The customer can give feedback on whether the design meets his requirements and also see – using a HoloLens 2 for example – the digital twin in the real production environment. In turn, Tipteh´s engineers can plan and develop in a more targeted manner. “With this approach we are saving costs in the right place and make our customers more satisfied,” says Vracar.<img src="https://images.wevolver.com/eyJidWNrZXQiOiJ3ZXZvbHZlci1wcm9qZWN0LWltYWdlcyIsImtleSI6ImZyb2FsYS8xNzIwNTI4OTUwODk0LWhvbG8yLmpwZyIsImVkaXRzIjp7InJlc2l6ZSI6eyJ3aWR0aCI6OTUwLCJmaXQiOiJjb3ZlciJ9fX0=" style="width: 100%px;" class="fr-fic fr-dib"><h3 dir="ltr" id="isPasted">Augmented Reality as a Key Technology</h3>Now, all of Tipteh´s engineering teams have used Hololight Space to exchange ideas and show their work to see how it interconnects to other parts of the design. “Our employees find Hololight Space very intuitive and easy to use. Hololight also responded super-urgent to any request for training and support,” Vracar notes. “The implementation of Mixed Reality on HoloLens 2 with Hololight Space was new for our company and now is becoming an integral part of our designing process.” Thus, for the future Tipteh also plans to use the technology in integration and retrofitting of existing machines.Learn more about the imapct of AR from Hololight's recent whitepaper.&nbsp;Key highlights of the whitepaper:<ul><li dir="ltr">Learn how companies can use AR to increase the quality and productivity of their entire process chain</li><li dir="ltr">Understand what a consistent Augmented Reality strategy can look like and how to implement one.</li><li dir="ltr">Discover how well-known companies are already successfully using AR through detailed case studies.&nbsp;</li></ul>Don't miss out on these valuable insights. Get your copy of the white paper now by filling out the simple form below.&nbsp;<iframe id="JotFormIFrame-241713238748360" title="Hololight Form" allowtransparency="true" src="https://form.jotform.com/241713238748360" frameborder="0" style="min-width: 100%; max-width: 100%; height: 380px; border: none;" scrolling="no" class="fr-draggable" data-lf-form-tracking-inspected-kn9eq4roawkarlvp="true" data-lf-yt-playback-inspected-kn9eq4roawkarlvp="true" data-lf-vimeo-playback-inspected-kn9eq4roawkarlvp="true">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </iframe>

From avoiding costly mistakes to faster design decisions and stronger customer relationships: How Hololight Space plays a big role in the product development process for global engineering company Tipteh. 

Case Study: AR as a Game Changer for Machine Builder Company

A new article series from XR software company Hololight demonstrates how AR can impact product development, showcasing its potential to radically change the way you bring products to life. In the six-part series, the authors discuss the technology's practical applications and guide you through the steps of implementing AR in your organization.Whether you're a seasoned product developer, engineer, or just curious about the future of AR technology and product design, this series is your roadmap to leverage the power of immersive AR.&nbsp;<table style="width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td style="width: 100%;"><h2> In the recent white paper from HoloLight, 'AR as a Booster for Industry 4.0,' you can explore the ways in which AR can have a significant transformative impact.&nbsp;</h2>Key highlights of the whitepaper:<ul><li dir="ltr">Learn how companies can use AR to increase the quality and productivity of their entire process chain</li><li dir="ltr">Understand what a consistent Augmented Reality strategy can look like and how to implement one.</li><li dir="ltr">Discover how well-known companies are already successfully using AR through detailed case studies.&nbsp;</li></ul>Don't miss out on these valuable insights. Get your copy of the white paper now by filling out the simple form below.&nbsp; &nbsp;<iframe id="JotFormIFrame-241713238748360" title="Hololight Form" allowtransparency="true" src="https://form.jotform.com/241713238748360" frameborder="0" style="min-width:100%;max-width:100%;height:725px;border:none;" scrolling="no" class="fr-draggable" data-lf-form-tracking-inspected-kn9eq4roawkarlvp="true" data-lf-yt-playback-inspected-kn9eq4roawkarlvp="true" data-lf-vimeo-playback-inspected-kn9eq4roawkarlvp="true">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </iframe>&nbsp;</td></tr></tbody></table><h2 dir="ltr" id="isPasted">Article 1 – How Far can Augmented Reality Go?</h2>Article 1 of the series shows the importance of digital continuity to ensure smooth data integration and utilization. It introduces the concept of immersive AR for 3D content, highlighting its potential to transform visualization in product design. With the help of AR glasses like Microsoft’s HoloLens 2 in combination with the right software, engineers can see and collaborate on 3D digital twins or prototypes in real-time. This allows for a more intuitive and faster way to develop products. This results in unprecedented application scenarios, including digital X-ray vision for process optimization, precise measurements, and improved fault diagnosis and correction.The article makes clear the ways in which AR applications must adhere to the principle of digital continuity, ensuring that holographic 3D models match the source data down to the smallest detail.Read the full article <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/series-how-establish-ar-product-development-part-1-hololightgmbh/?trackingId=ily27qu1SBa74eox4CdSpw%3D%3D" target="_blank">here</a>.<h2 dir="ltr">Article 2 – How Do You Find Individual AR Use Cases for Product Development?</h2>Article 2 of the series identifies specific use cases for AR within the product development lifecycle. The article shows how implementing immersive AR in product development is achievable for any company with existing 3D data. Analyze your product development process and identify areas where physical steps can be replaced with digital ones using AR.&nbsp;Immersive AR plays two key roles:<ul><li dir="ltr">Replacing Physical Prototypes: Digital prototyping is faster and cheaper than traditional methods like 3D printing or clay modeling. Designs can be easily updated and tested, leading to more rapid development cycles.</li><li dir="ltr">Cross-Site Collaboration: Teams around the world can collaborate on 3D holograms in real-time, eliminating travel time and streamlining communication. This collaborative approach extends to quality assurance and other downstream processes.</li></ul>By reducing costs, prototype iterations, and travel time, AR helps companies bring products to market faster.The article highlights the core principle of optimizing existing processes rather than creating entirely new ones. Start small and let your employees discover new use cases as they become familiar with AR's capabilities.Read the full article <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/series-how-establish-ar-product-development-part-2-hololightgmbh/" target="_blank">here</a>.<h2 dir="ltr">Article 3 – How Do We Ensure Occupational Safety &amp; Technology Adoption?</h2>The third article of the series tackles two key concerns for companies considering AR: worker safety and employee adoption.<h3 dir="ltr">Safety First</h3>AR headsets come in various configurations, with some prioritizing safety features. Look for wireless devices with an open peripheral vision design that works indoors and outdoors and offers a flip-up display for maintaining situational awareness. Depending on your specific needs, other headsets might be suitable. Consulting with neutral experts ensures you choose the optimal hardware for your use case.<h3 dir="ltr">Building an AR Fan Club</h3>Your company needs employees who are passionate advocates and champions for AR, promoting it internally.<ul><li dir="ltr">Lead by Example: They should actively use and promote AR, showcasing its benefits across departments.</li><li dir="ltr">Speak Up: They should advocate for AR at external events, generating excitement and buy-in.</li><li dir="ltr">Focus on Results: They should back their claims with concrete examples and success stories from AR pilot projects.</li></ul><h3 dir="ltr">Experience Days: Building Momentum</h3>The article advocates for companies who are introducing AR to organize an "Experience Day" to foster internal support for AR. This event allows departments to showcase their AR projects, discuss challenges and benefits, and let everyone experience AR firsthand.Sharing ideas and seeing AR in action creates an internal innovation network where employees learn from each other and discover new possibilities.As employees witness the time-saving efficiency and frustration-reduction AR offers in their daily work, acceptance grows naturally. They'll even start proposing new uses for AR beyond product development, like logistics planning or factory design simulations. Read the full article <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/series-how-establish-ar-product-development-part-3-hololightgmbh/" target="_blank">here</a>.<img src="https://images.wevolver.com/eyJidWNrZXQiOiJ3ZXZvbHZlci1wcm9qZWN0LWltYWdlcyIsImtleSI6ImZyb2FsYS8xNzE5NDE1MjMxMzkxLTIwMjQtMDYtMDZfd2V2b2x2ZV9HcmFmaWtfMTQ0MHg4MTBfNCAoMSkucG5nIiwiZWRpdHMiOnsicmVzaXplIjp7IndpZHRoIjo5NTAsImZpdCI6ImNvdmVyIn19fQ==" style="width: 100%px;" class="fr-fic fr-dib"><h2 dir="ltr" id="isPasted">Article 4 – What about IT Integration and Data Security?</h2>This article emphasizes using a "single source of truth" approach, where data is stored securely and accessed indirectly through AR applications. This ensures the original data remains protected.For smooth integration and scalability, your AR platform should:<ul><li dir="ltr">Support multiple devices, similar to how WhatsApp works on various smartphones.</li><li dir="ltr">Utilize streaming functionality - users access an interactive video stream of the AR application instead of running it locally on their device. This keeps the original data secure on a central server.</li></ul>The article goes on to stress that high-quality, lossless streaming is essential for maintaining digital continuity (explained in Part 1) and integrating AR into your existing IT infrastructure. Most companies can leverage their existing network for AR streaming without needing a dedicated setup.Read the full article <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/series-how-establish-ar-product-development-part-4-hololightgmbh/" target="_blank">here</a>.<h2 dir="ltr">Article 5 – What is the ROI of AR?&nbsp;</h2>Article 5 of the series dives into the return on investment (ROI) you can expect from AR. Here's the key takeaway: AR can pay for itself within months by saving time, materials, and travel costs.<h3 dir="ltr">Identifying AR's Impact</h3>Look for processes where AR can replace physical steps (e.g., 3D printing prototypes) or real materials (e.g., physical prototypes themselves). These areas hold the most ROI potential.Once you implement AR for a few initial use cases, it becomes easier to identify further optimization opportunities. As experience grows, the cost per AR project decreases, leading to a faster return.<h3 dir="ltr">Measuring Success</h3>Companies can track ROI at various stages of product development. Here are some key metrics discussed in this article:<ul><li dir="ltr">Time saved through collaborative work on digital prototypes</li><li dir="ltr">Material savings from using virtual models</li><li dir="ltr">Prototype iteration speed compared to traditional methods</li><li dir="ltr">Number of defects found and fixed in prototypes</li><li dir="ltr">Reduced travel time</li></ul>Read the full article <a href="https://hololight.com/series-how-to-establish-ar-in-product-development-part-5/" target="_blank">here</a>.<h2 dir="ltr">Article 6 – Who Will Drive AR Technology in the Future?</h2>This final article of the series discusses leadership and the future of AR in business.<h3 dir="ltr">AR Adoption: Beyond Initial Steps</h3>While getting started with AR is easy, true transformation requires executives' commitment. Leaders with a long-term vision must champion AR and integrate it across various business processes.<h3 dir="ltr">Ownership and Vision</h3><ul><li dir="ltr">Clearly define ownership of AR projects and the overall "Industrial Metaverse" strategy. This fosters enterprise-wide adoption.</li><li dir="ltr">Titles like "Mixed Reality Solutions Lead" or "Chief Metaverse Officer" reflect the growing importance of AR leadership.</li></ul><h3 dir="ltr">The Industrial Metaverse Advantage</h3><ul><li dir="ltr">Companies that embrace AR now gain an "early adopter" advantage, similar to those with an early web presence in the 90s.</li><li dir="ltr">Immersive AR is the key to entering the Industrial Metaverse, a future where virtual and real worlds converge across all business areas.</li></ul>For more details, you can read the full article <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/series-how-establish-ar-product-development-part-6-hololightgmbh/?trackingId=gm17h4CrTdGNrfygDO6l0A%3D%3D" target="_blank">here</a>.<h2 dir="ltr">Final Words – Stepping into the Industrial Metaverse with AR</h2>This six-article series will equip you with a comprehensive understanding of how Augmented Reality (AR) can revolutionize product development. We've explored the technology's potential, from creating immersive 3D prototypes to fostering collaborative design across teams.By adopting AR now, companies gain a significant advantage. AR is a gateway to the "Industrial Metaverse," where immersive technologies will transform how businesses operate.Check out the informative webinar from Hololight to learn more about the opportunities associated with implementing AR within your business.&nbsp;What you’ll learn<ul><li dir="ltr">Explore detailed methodologies on how AR can significantly reduce your time to market and lower prototype expenses. The webinar provides insights into the cost-saving mechanisms enabled by AR.</li><li dir="ltr">Learn about AR's capabilities in improving communication and collaboration among engineering teams. The session covers specific tools and techniques that facilitate more efficient project execution.</li><li dir="ltr">The webinar includes technical discussions on the scalability and adaptability of AR solutions.</li></ul><h3 dir="ltr">How to Access the whitepaper</h3>Accessing the whitepaper is straightforward. Register below and gain immediate access to this valuable resource.&nbsp;&nbsp;<iframe id="JotFormIFrame-241713238748360" title="Hololight Form" allowtransparency="true" src="https://form.jotform.com/241713238748360" frameborder="0" style="min-width:100%;max-width:100%;height:725px;border:none;" scrolling="no" class="fr-draggable" data-lf-form-tracking-inspected-kn9eq4roawkarlvp="true" data-lf-yt-playback-inspected-kn9eq4roawkarlvp="true" data-lf-vimeo-playback-inspected-kn9eq4roawkarlvp="true">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </iframe>&nbsp;This article was edited by Hiba Akbar.&nbsp;

Imagine a world where engineers can collaborate together on 3D holographic prototypes, manipulating them with ease, and where workers see real-time data superimposed on physical objects. This isn't science fiction; it's the transformative power of Augmented Reality (AR).

How to Establish AR in Product Development?

How can virtual reality (VR) be experienced haptically, i.e., through the sense of touch? This is one of the fundamental questions that modern VR research is investigating. Computer scientist André Zenner, who is based in Saarbrücken, Germany, has come a significant step closer to answering this question in his doctoral thesis – by inventing new devices and developing software-based techniques inspired by human perception. He has now been awarded the prestigious "Best Dissertation Award" at the world's leading VR conference.The award-winning work is about how physical props (technical term: "proxies") can be used to make objects in virtual environments tangible. "Of course, you can't have a proxy for every virtual object, then the approach wouldn't be scalable. In my dissertation, I, therefore, thought about what devices could look like that could be used to simulate the physical properties of several different virtual objects as effectively as possible," explains André Zenner, who completed his doctorate at the Saarbrücken Graduate School of Computer Science at Saarland University and is now conducting research at Saarland University and the German Research Center for Artificial Intelligence.This resulted in the prototypes for two special VR controllers, "Shifty" and "Drag:on." VR controllers are devices that can be held in the user’s hand to control or manipulate objects in virtual reality using tracking technology.<a target="_blank"></a><header><h2>Shifty</h2></header>"Shifty" is a tubular controller in which a movable weight is installed. The weight can be moved along the lengthwise axis by a motor, changing the center of gravity and inertia of the rod. "In combination with corresponding visualizations in virtual reality, Shifty can be used to create the illusion that a virtual object is getting longer or heavier," explains André Zenner. In experiments, he was able to prove that objects are perceived as lighter or smaller when the weight is close to the user's hand and that, coupled with the corresponding visual input; they are perceived as longer and heavier the further the weight in the rod moves away from the user. "This is mainly due to changes in the inertia of the controller, as the overall weight does not change," explains André Zenner. The research and development department of gaming giant Sony is already experimenting with this concept and cites André Zenner's work in the development of new VR controllers.<a target="_blank"></a><header><h2>Drag:on</h2></header>The second controller, "Drag:on," consists of two flamenco fans that can be unfolded using servomotors, thus increasing the air resistance of the controller. This means that the further the fans are unfolded, the more force the user has to exert to move the controller through the air. "Coupled with the right visual stimuli, Drag:on can be used to create the impression that the user is holding a small shovel or a large paddle, for example, or that they are pushing a heavy trolley or are twisting a knob that is difficult to turn," explains André Zenner. Both controllers are basic research and so-called "proof of concepts." This means that the prototypes can be used to show in user experiments that different controller states can improve the perception of different VR objects. Still, specific products using this technology are not yet available on the market.<a target="_blank"></a><header><h2>Similarity and colocation problem</h2></header>With the controllers, the Saarbrücken-based computer scientist first addressed the so-called ‘similarity problem.’ The aim here is to ensure that virtual and real objects feel as similar as possible. In the second part of his work, he dealt with the so-called ‘colocation problem,’ i.e., the question of how the proxy can be spatially located in real life where the user sees it in virtual reality. This is particularly challenging as the controllers act as proxies for different virtual objects. Consequently, the user must be given the illusion that they are reaching for various objects, although in reality, they will always grasp the same proxy.To achieve this, the researcher made use of the already established method of "hand redirection." As the name suggests, this involves redirecting the movement of the hand in virtual reality so that the user thinks they are reaching to the left, for example, even though they are actually stretching their hand forward. "We conducted experiments to investigate the point at which users realize that their hand has been redirected. Our results showed that this point was reached quickly, so we thought about how we could better conceal the hand redirection," says André Zenner. The solution: he tricked the brain by only redirecting the hand when the brain was blind to visual changes - namely during blinking. Together with a student under his supervision, he developed the appropriate software and used the eye trackers built into many VR headsets. In control studies, the team was then able to show that their new controllers, in combination with hand redirection algorithms, led to more convincing VR perceptions than previously possible.This research achievement has now been recognized internationally. The work entitled "Advancing Proxy-Based Haptic Feedback in Virtual Reality" was awarded the "IEEE VGTC Virtual Reality Best Dissertation Award" in mid-March at the "IEEE Conference on Virtual Reality and 3D User Interfaces", which took place this year in Orlando, Florida. According to the IEEE, the award is presented each year to the author of the most outstanding dissertation defended in the previous two calendar years in the research fields of virtual and augmented reality. A total of 16 dissertations were submitted to the 2024 edition of the conference and reviewed by an international committee of experts. The thesis was supervised by Prof. Dr. Antonio Krüger, CEO of the German Research Center for Artificial Intelligence and Head of the Ubiquitous Media Lab at Saarland University.<hr>Original Publication:&nbsp;Zenner, A. (2022). Advancing Proxy-Based Haptic Feedback in Virtual Reality. Universität des Saarlandes. <a href="https://dx.doi.org/10.22028/D291-37879" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer">doi:10.22028/D291-37879</a>

How can virtual reality (VR) be experienced haptically, i.e., through the sense of touch? This is one of the fundamental questions that modern VR research is investigating.

Tricking the brain: New dimensions of haptics in virtual reality

Researchers in the emerging field of spatial computing have developed a prototype augmented reality headset that uses holographic imaging to overlay full-color, 3D moving images on the lenses of what would appear to be an ordinary pair of glasses. Unlike the bulky headsets of present-day augmented reality systems, the new approach delivers a visually satisfying 3D viewing experience in a compact, comfortable, and attractive form factor suitable for all-day wear.“Our headset appears to the outside world just like an everyday pair of glasses, but what the wearer sees through the lenses is an enriched world overlaid with vibrant, full-color 3D computed imagery,” said <a href="https://web.stanford.edu/~gordonwz/" data-extlink="" target="_blank">Gordon Wetzstein</a>, an associate professor of electrical engineering and an expert in the fast-emerging field of spatial computing. Wetzstein and a team of engineers introduce their device in a new paper in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41586-024-07386-0" data-extlink="" target="_blank">Nature</a>. Additional information about this advance is available at <a href="https://www.computationalimaging.org/publications/holographicAR/" data-extlink="" target="_blank">this website</a>, created by the research team.Though only a prototype now, such a technology, they say, could transform fields stretching from gaming and entertainment to training and education – anywhere computed imagery might enhance or inform the wearer’s understanding of the world around them.“One could imagine a surgeon wearing such glasses to plan a delicate or complex surgery or airplane mechanic using them to learn to work on the latest jet engine,” <a href="https://manugopa.github.io/" data-extlink="" target="_blank">Manu Gopakumar</a>, a doctoral student in the Wetzstein-led <a href="https://www.computationalimaging.org/" data-extlink="" target="_blank">Stanford Computational Imaging lab</a> and co-first author of the paper said.<img src="https://s3-us-west-1.amazonaws.com/wevolver-project-images/froala%2F1715819863917-2_20240430_holographic_ar_displays_n6a0965_0.png.webp" style="width: 100%px;" class="fr-fic fr-dib">New holographic augmented reality system that enables more compact 3D displays | Image courtesy of Andrew Brodhead<h2 id="isPasted">Barriers overcome</h2>The new approach is the first to thread a complex maze of engineering requirements that have so far produced either ungainly headsets or less-than-satisfying 3D visual experiences that can leave the wearer visually fatigued, or even a bit nauseous at times.“There is no other augmented reality system out there now with comparable compact form factor or that matches our 3D image quality,” said <a href="https://gunyeal.github.io/" data-extlink="" target="_blank">Gun-Yeal Lee</a>, a postdoctoral researcher in the Stanford Computational Imaging lab and co-first author of the paper.To succeed, the researchers have overcome technical barriers through a combination of AI-enhanced holographic imaging and new nanophotonic device approaches. The first hurdle was that the techniques for displaying augmented reality imagery often require the use of complex optical systems. In these systems, the user does not actually see the real world through the lenses of the headset. Instead, cameras mounted on the exterior of the headset capture the world in real time and combine that imagery with computed imagery. The resulting blended image is then projected to the user’s eye stereoscopically.“The user sees a digitized approximation of the real world with computed imagery overlaid. It’s sort of augmented virtual reality, not true augmented reality,” explained Lee.These systems, Wetzstein explains, are necessarily bulky because they use magnifying lenses between the wearer’s eye and the projection screens that require a minimum distance between the eye, the lenses, and the screens, leading to additional size.“Beyond bulkiness, these limitations can also lead to unsatisfactory perceptual realism and, often, visual discomfort,” said <a href="https://choisuyeon.github.io/" data-extlink="" target="_blank">Suyeon Choi</a>, a doctoral student in the Stanford Computational Imaging lab and co-author of the paper.<h2>Killer app</h2>To produce more visually satisfying 3D images, Wetzstein leapfrogged traditional stereoscopic approaches in favor of holography, a Nobel-winning visual technique developed in the late-1940s. Despite great promise in 3D imaging, more widespread adoption of holography has been limited by an inability to portray accurate 3D depth cues, leading to an underwhelming, sometimes nausea-inducing, visual experience.The Wetzstein team used AI to improve the depth cues in the holographic images. Then, using advances in nanophotonics and waveguide display technologies, the researchers were able to project computed holograms onto the lenses of the glasses without relying on bulky additional optics.A waveguide is constructed by etching nanometer-scale patterns onto the lens surface. Small holographic displays mounted at each temple project the computed imagery through the etched patterns which bounce the light within the lens before it is delivered directly to the viewer’s eye. Looking through the glasses’ lenses, the user sees both the real world and the full-color, 3D computed images displayed on top.<img src="https://s3-us-west-1.amazonaws.com/wevolver-project-images/froala%2F1715819889720-3_20240430_holographic_ar_displays_n6a1169_0.png.webp" style="width: 100%px;" class="fr-fic fr-dib">Using nanophotonic technologies called metasurface optics, the researchers designed and fabricated a novel waveguide design that can relay 3D hologram information of RGB visible light into a single compact device with high transparency. These nanophotonic waveguide samples were fabricated in-house at Stanford Nanofabrication Facility and Stanford Nano Shared Facilities. | Image courtesy of Andrew Brodhead<h2 id="isPasted">Life-like quality</h2>The 3D effect is enhanced because it is created both stereoscopically, in the sense that each eye gets to see a slightly different image as they would in traditional 3D imaging, and holographically.“With holography, you also get the full 3D volume in front of each eye increasing the life-like 3D image quality,” said <a href="https://bchao1.github.io/" data-extlink="" target="_blank">Brian Chao</a>, a doctoral student in the Stanford Computational Imaging lab and also co-author of the paper.The ultimate outcome of the new waveguide display techniques and the improvement in holographic imaging is a true-to-life 3D visual experience that is both visually satisfying to the user without the fatigue that has challenged earlier approaches.“Holographic displays have long been considered the ultimate 3D technique, but it’s never quite achieved that big commercial breakthrough,” Wetzstein said. “Maybe now they have the killer app they’ve been waiting for all these years.”Additional authors are from The University of Hong Kong and NVIDIA. Wetzstein is also member of&nbsp;<a href="http://biox.stanford.edu/" data-extlink="" target="_blank">Stanford Bio-X</a>, the&nbsp;<a href="https://humanperformance.stanford.edu/" data-extlink="" target="_blank">Wu Tsai Human Performance Alliance</a>, and the&nbsp;<a href="https://neuroinstitute.stanford.edu/" data-extlink="" target="_blank">Wu Tsai Neurosciences Institute</a>.

Prototype of the compact augmented reality glasses. Through holography and AI, these glasses can display full-color, 3D moving images over an otherwise direct view of the real world. | Image courtesy of Andrew Brodhead

Combining advances in display technologies, holographic imaging, and artificial intelligence, engineers at Stanford say they have produced a leap forward for augmented reality.

AI and holography bring 3D augmented reality to regular glasses

<h2 id="isPasted">A training center at the cutting edge of progress</h2>The aeronautics industry is without question a dynamic sector of activity where progress takes place at breakneck pace and where the players in the field have to deal with remarkable technological advances that follow each other at increasingly shorter intervals. This industry would therefore very likely find itself lagging behind considerably without the support of continually updated training programs and lecturers who keep a close eye on market developments.And this is exactly what happens at the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.polyaero05.fr/le-centre/" target="_blank">POLYAÉRO® Hautes-Alpes</a> Center of Excellence, which is managed by FORMASUP MÉDITERRANÉE and where a research laboratory is used to ensure that new technologies and the latest aeronautical practices are included in the learners’ educational and technological pathway.Harnessing virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) tools, this immersive laboratory makes it possible for students to examine and handle aeronautical parts and even entire aircraft interactively. However, making digital twins and 3D models available in VR requires reliable scan data to be collected using devices of proven metrological quality, and then post-processed in an intuitive and user-friendly software ecosystem.In the wake of these numerous improvements, POLYAÉRO® Center of Excellence thus found itself in need of reliable means for digitizing parts and models that could be moving or static, large or small.<h2>Versatile equipment, lasting results</h2>One of the aircraft that was scanned for 3D imaging at POLYAÉRO® is a PC-6 Porter, a paratrooper transport aircraft. With a length of eleven meters and a wingspan of sixteen meters, this aircraft from Swiss aircraft manufacturer PILATUS Aircraft presented specific challenges that this scanner was able to handle thanks to its shape, size and mobility.The industrial project carried out by the students required studying the conversion of a thermal-powered aircraft into an electric aircraft. This involved creating a digital twin of the entire PC-6 Porter.It is important to note that before POLYAÉRO® acquired Creaform’s solutions, scanning was done using a measuring arm equipped with a scanner head, which made data acquisition more complex. In fact, unlike the various CREAFORM scanners, this solution was not suitable to meet their need for flexibility.ScanningThe scanning device that was chosen had to meet the following indispensable conditions:<ul><li>Ergonomic</li><li>Compatible with the digitization of moving and very large objects and parts.</li></ul>This led POLYAÉRO® to choose&nbsp;<a href="https://www.creaform3d.com/en" target="_blank">Creaform</a> scanners and photogrammetry systems:<ul><li>The&nbsp;<a href="https://www.creaform3d.com/en/optical-3d-scanner-metrascan" target="_blank">MetraSCAN 3D</a> for scanning the exterior of the aircraft</li><li>The&nbsp;<a href="https://www.creaform3d.com/en/handheld-portable-3d-scanner-goscan-3d" target="_blank">Go!SCAN 3D</a> and the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.creaform3d.com/en/handyscan-3d-silver-series-professional-3d" target="_blank">HandySCAN 3D|SILVER</a> for the interior</li><li>The&nbsp;<a href="https://www.creaform3d.com/en/metrology-solutions/optical-measuring-systems-maxshot-3d" target="_blank">MaxSHOT 3D&nbsp;</a>for creating a common marker inside and outside the aircraft</li></ul>The scan data was collected within a very short time and then served as the basis for the rest of the project, including retrofitting the aircraft with an electric motor and batteries, all in 3DEXPERIENCE (formerly CATIA V5, from the software publisher Dassault Systèmes).Animated in VR in an appropriate setting, the aircraft’s digital twin was given various modifications which, once validated, were adapted in augmented reality.<h3>A simple but powerful software platform</h3>Reverse engineeringAfter a 3D scan of the aircraft was rendered in real time using Creaform’s various measurement solutions, reverse engineering could start. The geometries thus captured were processed in Creaform’s software module <a href="https://www.creaform3d.com/en/metrology-solutions/3d-applications-software-platforms/vxmodel-scan-cad-software-module" target="_blank">VXmodel</a> by a group of students in training. The reverse engineered components were then reconstructed using 3DEXPERIENCE software.<img src="https://s3-us-west-1.amazonaws.com/wevolver-project-images/froala%2F1714726741746-Polyaero_image_3d.webp" style="width: 100%px;" class="fr-fic fr-dib">With its intuitive interface, ease of use and fast processing times, the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.creaform3d.com/en/vxelements-viewer" target="_blank">VXelements</a> platform has become an essential tool for setting up a library of 3D models that are derived from scans or formed through reverse engineering. This constantly evolving database fuels the technological projects as well as the digital libraries of the immersive VR and AR laboratory.The POLYAÉRO® Hautes Alpes Center of Excellence is at the forefront of educational innovation, offering its students all the hardware and software resources they need to build solid skills for the professions of the future in the aeronautical industry.<a href="https://www.creaform3d.com/blog/pun5th75ef_wp/wp-content/uploads/Polyaero_equipe31.jpg" target="_blank"> </a><img src="https://s3-us-west-1.amazonaws.com/wevolver-project-images/froala%2F1714726755539-Polyaero_equipe31.webp" style="width: 100%px;" class="fr-fic fr-dib">“The ease with which we can use Creaform’s 3D scanners makes it easier for us to train our students in reverse engineering. Direct meshing is a distinct advantage in post-processing, as is the ability to scan an aircraft in the same repository using several scanners simultaneously,” sums up Killian Marandel, operational manager at POLYAÉRO®.The future of the industry and training&nbsp;At the POLYAERO® Hautes Alpes Center of Excellence, students choose their own technological projects and use 3D scanners to study discrepancies between design and production, deformations and reverse engineered models.The team of design engineers and lecturers need a large number of 3D models of parts in order to enrich the library and integrate them into virtual or augmented reality teaching materials.To do this, the center scans parts of all sizes and aircrafts to complete existing models or create new ones. It is thanks to this updating of databases and knowledge that POLYAÉRO® and the industry in general is evolving rapidly and almost organically. Creaform is thrilled to be part of this adventure.<img src="https://s3-us-west-1.amazonaws.com/wevolver-project-images/froala%2F1714726768301-Polyaero_equipe2-1536x1152.webp" style="width: 100%px;" class="fr-fic fr-dib">

The aeronautics industry is without question a dynamic sector of activity where progress takes place at breakneck pace and where the players in the field have to deal with remarkable technological advances that follow each other at increasingly shorter intervals.

Electrifying an Aircraft Using 3D Scanning and Augmented Reality

Holographic images have real depth because they are three dimensional, whereas monitors merely simulate depth on a 2D screen. Because we see in three dimensions, holographic images could be integrated seamlessly into our normal view of the everyday world.The result is a virtual and augmented reality display that has the potential to be truly immersive, the kind where you can move your head normally and never lose the holographic images from view. “To get a similar experience using a monitor, you would need to sit right in front of a cinema screen,” said <a href="https://engineering.princeton.edu/faculty/felix-heide" target="_blank">Felix Heide</a>, assistant professor of <a href="http://cs.princeton.edu/" target="_blank">computer science</a> and senior author on <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-024-46915-3" target="_blank">a paper</a> published April 22 in Nature Communications.And you wouldn’t need to wear a screen in front of your eyes to get this immersive experience. Optical elements required to create these images are tiny and could potentially fit on a regular pair of glasses. Virtual reality displays that use a monitor, as current displays do, require a full headset. And they tend to be bulky because they need to accommodate a screen and the hardware necessary to operate it.“Holography could make virtual and augmented reality displays easily usable, wearable, and ultrathin,” said Heide. They could transform how we interact with our environments, everything from getting directions while driving, to monitoring a patient during surgery, to accessing plumbing instructions while doing a home repair.One of the most important challenges is quality. Holographic images are created by a small chip-like device called a spatial light modulator. Until now, these modulators could only create images that are either small and clear or large and fuzzy. This tradeoff between image size and clarity results in a narrow field of view, too narrow to give the user an immersive experience. “If you look towards the corners of the display, the whole image may disappear,” said Nathan Matsuda, research scientist at Meta and co-author on the paper.<img src="https://s3-us-west-1.amazonaws.com/wevolver-project-images/froala%2F1713912832170-Neural_Etendue_Expander_3_v2-1-2048x1152.png" style="width: 100%px;" class="fr-fic fr-dib">At left, an image produced using current holographic display technology. At right, the same image created using the new optical element invented by researchers at Princeton and Meta.Heide, Matsuda and&nbsp;<a href="https://ethan-tseng.github.io/" target="_blank">Ethan Tseng</a>, doctoral student in computer science, have&nbsp;<a href="https://light.princeton.edu/publication/neural-etendue-expander/" target="_blank">created a device</a> to improve image quality and potentially solve this problem. Along with their collaborators, they built a second optical element to work in tandem with the spatial light modulator. Their device filters the light from the spatial light modulator to expand the field of view while preserving the stability and fidelity of the image. It creates a larger image with only a minimal drop in quality.Image quality has been a core challenge preventing the practical applications of holographic displays, said Matsuda. “The research brings us one step closer to resolving this challenge,” he said.The new optical element is like a very small custom-built piece of frosted glass, said Heide. The pattern etched into the frosted glass is the key. Designed using AI and optical techniques, the etched surface scatters light created by the spatial light modulator in a very precise way, pushing some elements of an image into frequency bands that are not easily perceived by the human eye. This improves the quality of the holographic image and expands the field of view.Still, hurdles to making a working holographic display remain. The image quality isn’t yet perfect, said Heide, and the fabrication process for the optical elements needs to be improved. “A lot of technology has to come together to make this feasible,” said Heide. “But this research shows a path forward.”The paper, “Neural Etendue Expander for Ultra-Wide-Angle High-Fidelity Holographic Display” was published April 22 in Nature Communications. In addition to Heide and Tseng, co-authors from Princeton include Seung-Hwan Baek and Praneeth Chakravarthula. In addition to Matsuda, co-authors from Meta Research are Grace Kuo, Andrew Maimone, Florian Schiffers, and Douglas Lanman. Qiang Fu and Wolfgang Heidrich from the Visual Computing Center at King Abdullah University of Science and Technology in Saudi Arabia also contributed. The work was supported by Princeton University’s&nbsp;<a href="https://iac.princeton.edu/home.html" target="_blank">Imaging and Analysis Center</a> and the King Abdullah University of Science and Technology’s Nanofabrication Core Lab.

Researchers at Princeton and Meta have created a tiny optical device that makes holographic images larger and clearer. Small enough to fit on a pair of eyeglasses, the device could enable a new kind of immersive virtual reality display. Illustration by Liz Sabol, photo by Nathan Matsuda

Setting the stage for a new era of immersive displays, researchers are one step closer to mixing the real and virtual worlds in an ordinary pair of eyeglasses using high-definition 3D holographic images, according to a study led by Princeton University researchers.

Augmented Reality (AR)

Profiles