<p>In this episode, we explore a groundbreaking neurotechnology that boosts memory without the need for invasive surgery potentially helping people all over the world struggling with spatial memory.</p><p><span contenteditable="false" draggable="true" class="fr-video fr-deletable fr-fvc fr-dvb fr-draggable"><iframe height="200px" width="100%" frameborder="no" scrolling="no" seamless="" src="https://player.simplecast.com/6b08d0cb-2606-44e8-be73-1dd17a7d2839?dark=false" 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></span></p><hr><p><img src="https://s3-us-west-1.amazonaws.com/wevolver-project-images/froala%2F1732112441487-Mouser.webp" style="width: 100%px;" class="fr-fic fr-dib"></p><p>This podcast is sponsored by <a href="https://www2.mouser.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow" id="isPasted">Mouser Electronics</a>.&nbsp;</p><hr><h3 id="isPasted">Episode Notes</h3><p>(4:10) - <a href="https://www.wevolver.com/article/neurotechnology-boosts-memory-without-surgery">Neurotechnology Boosts Memory Without Surgery</a></p><p>This episode was brought to you by Mouser, our favorite place to get electronics parts for any project, whether it be a hobby at home or a prototype for work. Click <a href="https://resources.mouser.com/wearables/ble-audio-hearing-aids">HERE</a> to learn more about BLE and its impact on wireless communication and wearables!</p><p>Become a founding reader of our newsletter: <a href="http://read.thenextbyte.com/">http://read.thenextbyte.com/</a></p>

In this episode, we explore a groundbreaking neurotechnology that boosts memory without the need for invasive surgery potentially helping people all over the world struggling with spatial memory.

Podcast: Non-invasive Memory Booster

<p id="isPasted">This article was discussed in our <a href="https://www.wevolver.com/profile/the.next.byte" rel="noopener noreferrer">Next Byte podcast</a>.&nbsp;</p><p><span contenteditable="false" draggable="true" class="fr-video fr-deletable fr-fvc fr-dvb fr-draggable"><iframe height="200px" width="100%" frameborder="no" scrolling="no" seamless="" src="https://player.simplecast.com/6b08d0cb-2606-44e8-be73-1dd17a7d2839?dark=false" class="fr-draggable" data-gtm-yt-inspected-24="true" data-lf-form-tracking-inspected-kn9eq4roawkarlvp="true" data-lf-yt-playback-inspected-kn9eq4roawkarlvp="true" data-lf-vimeo-playback-inspected-kn9eq4roawkarlvp="true"></iframe></span><br></p><p>The full article will continue below.</p><hr><p><br></p><p><span contenteditable="false" draggable="true" class="fr-video fr-deletable fr-fvc fr-dvb fr-draggable"><iframe width="640" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/k7oJjazQAe4?&amp;wmode=opaque&amp;rel=0&amp;enablejsapi=1&amp;origin=https://www.wevolver.com" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="" class="fr-draggable" data-gtm-yt-inspected-24="true" data-lf-form-tracking-inspected-kn9eq4roawkarlvp="true" data-lf-yt-playback-inspected-kn9eq4roawkarlvp="true" data-lf-vimeo-playback-inspected-kn9eq4roawkarlvp="true"><span class="fr-mk" style="display: none;">&nbsp;</span></iframe></span></p><p>As we age, it becomes more difficult to remember where things are—whether it’s recalling where we left the keys or where we parked the car. This spatial memory deteriorates further with the onset of dementia, a condition that someone in the world develops every three seconds, according to Alzheimer’s Disease International.</p><p><span class="fr-img-caption fr-fic fr-dib" style="width: 833px;"><span class="fr-img-wrap"><img src="https://images.wevolver.com/eyJidWNrZXQiOiJ3ZXZvbHZlci1wcm9qZWN0LWltYWdlcyIsImtleSI6ImZyb2FsYS8xNzMxMDI1MjMwNTYyLTI5YzA1YzhlLmpwZyIsImVkaXRzIjp7InJlc2l6ZSI6eyJ3aWR0aCI6OTUwLCJmaXQiOiJjb3ZlciJ9fX0=" style="width: 100%px;" class="fr-fic fr-dib"><span class="fr-inner">© Alzheimer’s Disease International</span></span></span></p><blockquote><p id="isPasted">We are addressing a serious concern for those affected by dementia.</p><footer>- Friedhelm Hummel</footer></blockquote><p id="isPasted">Researchers at two EPFL labs have joined forces to give a boost to spatial memory by creating a unique experimental setup that combines non-invasive deep-brain stimulation, virtual reality training, and fMRI imaging—all housed within Campus Biotech in Geneva. Published in Science Advances, the study demonstrates that targeted, painless electric impusles to the hippocampus and adjacent structures, a deep brain region implied in memory and spatial navigation, can improve the brain’s ability to recall locations and navigate more effectively.</p><p>“By finding ways to improve spatial memory without surgery or medication, we are addressing a serious concern for a large and growing population: the elderly, as well as brain trauma patients and those affected by dementia,” says Friedhelm Hummel, head of the <a href="https://www.epfl.ch/labs/hummel-lab/">Hummel Lab</a>.</p><p>The study is the result of a collaboration between the Hummel Lab and Olaf Blanke’s Laboratory of Cognitive Neuroscience (<a href="https://www.epfl.ch/labs/lnco/">LCNO</a>), both at EPFL’s Neuro X institute. By combining Hummel’s expertise in non-invasive brain stimulation with Blanke’s cognitive research of spatial navigation in virtual reality environments, the researchers developed a unique neuro-technological setup.</p><h2><strong>A one-of-a-kind combination of neuro-technologies</strong></h2><p>The experiment begins with researchers placing four harmless electrodes on the heads of healthy individuals to stimulate the hippocampus and adjacent structures. This non-invasive technique, <a href="https://actu.epfl.ch/news/non-invasive-deep-brain-stimulation-enhances-motor/">called transcranial temporal interference electric stimulation</a> (tTIS), sends targeted pulses without causing any discomfort for the participant.</p><blockquote><p>This leads us to believe that by stimulating the hippocampus, we temporarily increased brain plasticity.</p><footer>Elena Beanato</footer></blockquote><p>Next, volunteers are immersed in a virtual world using VR goggles. <a href="https://infoscience.epfl.ch/server/api/core/bitstreams/3f433490-92a4-461e-be04-fc02dea934b0/content">Building on previous research</a> by co-first-author Hyuk-June Moon, the scientists task the participants with navigating through a series of locations and remembering key landmarks. This immersive virtual setting allows researchers to precisely measure how well participants can recall and navigate spatial information whilst receiving tTIS.</p><p><span class="fr-img-caption fr-fic fr-dib" style="width: 833px;"><span class="fr-img-wrap"><img src="https://images.wevolver.com/eyJidWNrZXQiOiJ3ZXZvbHZlci1wcm9qZWN0LWltYWdlcyIsImtleSI6ImZyb2FsYS8xNzMxMDI1Mjc2NjI5LTkyYmZiNzhiLmpwZyIsImVkaXRzIjp7InJlc2l6ZSI6eyJ3aWR0aCI6OTUwLCJmaXQiOiJjb3ZlciJ9fX0=" style="width: 100%px;" class="fr-fic fr-dib"><span class="fr-inner">Full experimental setup at Campus Biotech, combining non-invasive brain stimulation, virtual reality and fMRI. © 2024 EPFL</span></span></span></p><p id="isPasted">“When stimulation was applied, we observed a clear improvement of the participants’ recall time—the time it took to start moving toward where they remembered the object to be,” says Elena Beanato, the other first author of the study. “This leads us to believe that by stimulating the hippocampus, we temporarily increased brain plasticity, which, when combined with training in a virtual environment, leads to better spatial navigation.”</p><p>The entire experiment was conducted within an fMRI scanner. This provided researchers with real-time images of brain activity, allowing them to monitor how the hippocampus and surrounding regions responded to tTIS during the spatial navigation tasks. The fMRI data revealed changes in neural activity associated with the observed behavioral changes, specifically in the regions responsible for memory and navigation, giving the researchers deeper insight into how non-invasive stimulation modulates brain function.</p><p>This integration of advanced technologies at EPFL's Neuro X Institute, makes Campus Biotech one of the few places where all three experimental techniques can be combined in a single study.</p><blockquote><p>“In the long term, we envision using this approach to develop targeted therapies for patients suffering from cognitive impairments.</p><footer>- Olaf Blanke</footer></blockquote><p>“The alliance of tTIS, virtual reality, and fMRI offers a highly controlled and innovative approach to studying the brain’s response to stimulation and its impact on cognitive functions,” adds Olaf Blanke. “In the long term, we envision using this approach to develop targeted therapies for patients suffering from cognitive impairments, offering a non-invasive way to enhance memory and spatial abilities.”</p><hr><p><strong id="isPasted">References</strong></p><p>Beanato, E., Moon, H.-J., Windel, F., Vassiliadis, P., Wessel, M. J., Popa, T., Menoud, P., Neufeld, E., De Falco, E., Gauthier, B., Steiner, M., Blanke, O., &amp; Hummel, F. C. (2024). Noninvasive modulation of the hippocampal-entorhinal complex during spatial navigation in humans. Science Advances. DOI: <a href="https://doi.org/10.1126/sciadv.ado4103" target="_blank" rel="noopener">10.1126/sciadv.ado4103</a></p>

EPFL researchers have combined virtual reality, non-invasive brain stimulation and advanced brain imaging techniques to improve spatial navigation in healthy participants. The study is a first step in addressing dementia in an aging population without medication or surgery.

Neurotechnology boosts memory without surgery

<p><strong>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.</strong></p><blockquote id="isPasted"><p>"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."</p><footer>Didier Stricker, Lead "Augmented Vision" at DFKI</footer></blockquote><header><h2>System observes, interprets – and refines itself</h2></header><p>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.</p><p>Muhammad Zeshan Afzal, researcher in the department 'Augmented Vision' at DFKI explains, how this might look like in practise:</p><p><em>„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.”</em><em><img src="https://images.wevolver.com/eyJidWNrZXQiOiJ3ZXZvbHZlci1wcm9qZWN0LWltYWdlcyIsImtleSI6ImZyb2FsYS8xNzI2NTMwNzIzODgwLTEyNDIxNC5wbmciLCJlZGl0cyI6eyJyZXNpemUiOnsid2lkdGgiOjk1MCwiZml0IjoiY292ZXIifX19" style="width: 100%px;" class="fr-fic fr-dib"></em></p><header id="isPasted"><h2>Learning from descriptions creates flexibility</h2></header><p>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.</p><p>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.</p><p>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.</p><header><h2>Interactive support in real time</h2><p><span class="fr-img-caption fr-fic fr-dib" style="width: 832px;"><span class="fr-img-wrap"><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"><span class="fr-inner">Photo by Vinicius "amnx" Amano on Unsplash</span></span></span></p><p id="isPasted">The 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.</p><p>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.</p><h2>LUMINOUS in application</h2><p id="isPasted">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.</p><p>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.</p><p><span class="fr-img-caption fr-fic fr-dib" style="width: 832px;"><span class="fr-img-wrap"><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"><span class="fr-inner">Photo by Amr Taha™ on Unsplash</span></span></span></p><p id="isPasted">The 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.</p><p>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.</p><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><p>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.</p></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

<p id="isPasted"><a href="https://esiliveautomotive.vfairs.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">ESI LIVE Automotive</a> is an event that’s dedicated to driving EV innovation through the power of virtual prototyping. Attend online on October 24<sup>th</sup> to discover how ESI’s cutting-edge simulation software supercharges design cycles, boosts efficiency, and ensures flawless manufacturability.</p><p>Get ready to explore game-changing strategies for optimizing EV safety, comfort, and durability with the latest digital innovations. Dive into mastering EV acoustics, and see how virtual manufacturing is driving the shift towards lightweight materials. Take a step into the industrial metaverse where XR technology is redefining collaboration in design, manufacturing, and maintenance.&nbsp;</p><p>Sign up for ESI LIVE Automotive and attend insightful panel discussions, hear inspiring customer stories, and grab a front-row seat to the future of the EV industry!</p><table style="width: 98%; margin-right: calc(2%);"><tbody><tr><td style="width: 100%;"><strong>What:&nbsp;</strong>ESI LIVE Automotive digital event<br><strong>When:</strong> October 24th, 2-4 PM CET<br><strong>Register:</strong> 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">Sign up to attend here.</a><br></td></tr></tbody></table><h3 id="isPasted"><strong>Highlights of ESI LIVE:</strong><br>&nbsp;</h3><ul><li><strong>Optimizing EV safety, comfort, and durability:&nbsp;</strong><br>&nbsp;Discover innovative strategies for ensuring safety compliance, enhancing seating design and pre-certification, and streamlining the design process of complex systems through cutting-edge digital solutions.</li><li><strong>Mastering noise and sound-enhancing EV acoustics:&nbsp;<br>&nbsp;</strong>Identify next-generation simulation methodologies and innovative design techniques come together to revolutionize acoustic performance in electric vehicles.</li><li><strong>Virtual manufacturing for lightweight materials and processes:<br>&nbsp;</strong>Learn how to find the most efficient materials and manufacturing processes to achieve assemblies with optimal cost/quality ratio, ensuring correct performance.</li><li><strong>Industrial metaverse for virtual build &amp; immersive product integration:<br>&nbsp;</strong>Explore how XR technology breaks silos, fostering collaboration between design, manufacturing, and maintenance teams.</li></ul><p>Take advantage of this opportunity to hear customer stories, engage in insightful panel discussions, and witness firsthand the transformative capabilities of Virtual Prototyping in shaping the future of EV industry solutions.&nbsp;</p><p><a href="https://esiliveautomotive.vfairs.com/en/#agenda" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" class="button-main-action">Check out the agenda below.</a></p><table border="1" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" width="600" id="isPasted"><tbody><tr><td width="100%" colspan="3" valign="top"><p><strong>ESI LIVE AUTOMOTIVE 2024 AGENDA</strong></p></td></tr><tr><td width="19%" valign="top"><p><strong>Date &amp; Time</strong></p></td><td width="30.833333333333332%" valign="top"><p><strong>Track theme</strong></p></td><td width="50.166666666666664%" valign="top"><p><strong>Details</strong></p></td></tr><tr><td width="19%" valign="top"><p>October 24, 02:00 pm CET</p></td><td width="30.833333333333332%" valign="top"><p>Optimizing EV safety, comfort, and durability.</p><p>&nbsp;</p></td><td width="50.166666666666664%" valign="top"><p>The sessions cover key topics in automotive design and compliance. The first session discusses maintaining safety regulations and optimizing vehicle design within virtual homologation. The second session focuses on the effective design, manufacturing, testing, and pre-certification of vehicle seating. The final session explores the use of a digital thread in the design process of complex systems.</p></td></tr><tr><td width="19%" valign="top"><p>October 24, 02:00 pm CET</p></td><td width="30.833333333333332%" valign="top"><p>Empowering EV innovation: virtual manufacturing for lightweight materials and processes.</p><p>&nbsp;</p></td><td width="50.166666666666664%" valign="top"><p>The sessions focus on advancements in electric mobility and lightweight materials. The first session addresses the use of manufacturing simulations to evaluate performance in mega-casting components for electric vehicles. The second session discusses the challenges of using lightweight aluminum for stamping Class A panels. The final session covers innovative, high-efficiency components designed for electric and hydrogen vehicles.</p></td></tr><tr><td width="19%" valign="top"><p>October 24, 02:00 pm CET</p></td><td width="30.833333333333332%" valign="top"><p>Industrial metaverse for virtual build &amp; immersive product integration.</p><p>&nbsp;</p></td><td width="50.166666666666664%" valign="top"><p>The sessions explore integrating advanced virtual and immersive technologies in mobility and product development. The first session discusses how extended reality is shaping the future of mobility today. The second session focuses on enterprise virtuality and collaborative virtual builds. The final session examines human-centric process validation and immersive product integration.</p></td></tr></tbody></table><h3><img src="https://images.wevolver.com/eyJidWNrZXQiOiJ3ZXZvbHZlci1wcm9qZWN0LWltYWdlcyIsImtleSI6ImZyb2FsYS8xNzI1ODgzNDMxMDY1LXBkZi5qcGciLCJlZGl0cyI6eyJyZXNpemUiOnsid2lkdGgiOjk1MCwiZml0IjoiY292ZXIifX19" style="width: 100%px;" class="fr-fic fr-dib"></h3><h3 id="isPasted"><strong>Why you should attend:&nbsp;</strong></h3><p>Attending ESI LIVE Automotive offers a unique experience for professionals in the automotive industry, particularly those focused on electric vehicle (EV) development. Participants will have the chance to engage with thought leaders, network with peers, and gain insights into the latest advancements in EV design, manufacturing, and sustainability.&nbsp;</p><p>By attending, you'll not only stay ahead of industry shifts but also contribute to the critical conversations that are driving the electric vehicle revolution. This event is more than just an opportunity to learn—it's a chance to collaborate on groundbreaking ideas that will define the next era of mobility. Your presence and participation will help push the boundaries of what's possible, empowering innovation and fostering a sustainable transportation future.</p><p>We look forward to seeing you there, as together, we can make a significant impact on the future of automotive technology and sustainable mobility.</p><h3><strong>More details</strong></h3><p>To attend the ESI Live Automotive event, <a href="https://esiliveautomotive.vfairs.com/en/registration?utm_source=wevolver&utm_medium=all&utm_campaign=registration" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">register here</a> - the event is free.&nbsp;</p><p><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">Register here.</a></p><p>The vFairs platform used for the event is accessible from any device or browser. If you have any questions, you can email event@esi-group.com.&nbsp;</p><p>We encourage you to share the registration link with others who may benefit from the event. Your registration information will be used to create your login credentials and follow up. For more details, you can check the <a href="https://www.esi-group.com/privacy-terms-of-use" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">terms and conditions.</a></p>

Register for the live event, October 24th, 2-4 PM CET


ESI LIVE automotive digital event: Empowering innovation through virtual prototyping

<h2 id="isPasted">New whitepaper: How Augmented Reality is redefining product development.</h2><p dir="ltr">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;</p><p dir="ltr">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;</p><p dir="ltr"><strong>Key highlights of the whitepaper:</strong></p><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><p dir="ltr">Don't miss out on these valuable insights. Get your copy of the white paper now by filling out the simple form below.&nbsp;</p><p><span contenteditable="false" draggable="true" class="fr-video fr-deletable fr-fvc fr-dvb fr-draggable fr-active"><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></span></p><p dir="ltr" id="isPasted"><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.</p><p dir="ltr">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.”</p><p dir="ltr">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.”</p><h2>How LNS Group Engages Non-Design Teams with Augmented Reality for Better Outcomes</h2><p>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.</p><p>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.</p><p><span contenteditable="false" draggable="true" class="fr-video fr-deletable fr-fvc fr-dvb fr-draggable"><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></span><br></p><h3>Use Case 1 – How LNS Group Uses AR for Worldwide Collaboration &amp; Design Reviews</h3><p>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.”</p><p>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.</p><h2>Use Case 2 – How LNS Group Masters CE Compliance and Risk Assessment Across Borders</h2><p>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.”</p><p>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.”</p><h2>Use Case 3 – How LNS Group Streamlines Operations Handover with Industrial Augmented Reality</h2><p>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;</p><p>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.</p><h2>How LNS Group Is Getting User Buy-in and Planning New Use Cases</h2><p>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.</p><p>Want to try Hololight Space for yourself? <a href="https://hololight.com/hololight-space-demo/" target="_blank">Contact us for a free trial.</a></p>

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><p dir="ltr">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;</p><p dir="ltr">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;</p><p dir="ltr"><strong>Key highlights of the whitepaper:</strong></p><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><p dir="ltr">Don't miss out on these valuable insights. Get your copy of the white paper now by filling out the simple form below.&nbsp;</p><p dir="ltr"><img src="https://images.wevolver.com/eyJidWNrZXQiOiJ3ZXZvbHZlci1wcm9qZWN0LWltYWdlcyIsImtleSI6ImZyb2FsYS8xNzIzMDIwNjEwNDc5LWhvbG9saWdodCB3aGl0ZSBwYXBlci5wbmciLCJlZGl0cyI6eyJyZXNpemUiOnsid2lkdGgiOjk1MCwiZml0IjoiY292ZXIifX19" style="width: 100%px;" class="fr-fic fr-dib"></p><p dir="ltr"><span contenteditable="false" draggable="true" class="fr-video fr-deletable fr-fvc fr-dvb fr-draggable"><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></span></p><p dir="ltr" id="isPasted">“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;</p><p dir="ltr">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.</p><blockquote><p dir="ltr">“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;</p></blockquote><p dir="ltr">- Tobias Bauchrowitz, Leiter Engineering bei Bilfinger Engineering &amp; Maintenance</p><h1 dir="ltr">Requirements for AR Software</h1><p dir="ltr">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;</p><p dir="ltr">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.</p><h1 dir="ltr">Augmented Reality for Engineers</h1><p dir="ltr">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;</p><p dir="ltr">“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; Maintenance</p><p dir="ltr">In 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.”</p><p dir="ltr"><img src="https://images.wevolver.com/eyJidWNrZXQiOiJ3ZXZvbHZlci1wcm9qZWN0LWltYWdlcyIsImtleSI6ImZyb2FsYS8xNzIzMDIwMjI5MTI3LWhvbG9saWdodCBiaWxpLmpwZyIsImVkaXRzIjp7InJlc2l6ZSI6eyJ3aWR0aCI6OTUwLCJmaXQiOiJjb3ZlciJ9fX0=" style="width: 100%px;" class="fr-fic fr-dib"></p><h1 dir="ltr">AR as a Key Technology&nbsp;</h1><p dir="ltr">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.</p><blockquote><p dir="ltr">“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</p></blockquote><p>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;</p><p><span contenteditable="false" draggable="true" class="fr-video fr-deletable fr-fvc fr-dvb fr-draggable fr-active"><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></span></p>

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

<p id="isPasted">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;</p><p><span contenteditable="false" draggable="true" class="fr-video fr-deletable fr-fvc fr-dvb fr-draggable"><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></span><br></p><p>The full article will continue below.</p><table style="width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td style="width: 100%;"><h2><strong>New whitepaper: AR as a Booster for Industry 4.0,</strong></h2><p dir="ltr" id="isPasted">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;</p><p dir="ltr"><strong>Key highlights of the whitepaper:</strong></p><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><p dir="ltr">Don't miss out on these valuable insights. Get your copy of the white paper now by filling out the simple form below.&nbsp;</p><p dir="ltr"><span contenteditable="false" draggable="true" class="fr-video fr-deletable fr-fvc fr-dvb fr-draggable"><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"><span class="fr-mk" style="display: none;">&nbsp;</span><span class="fr-mk" style="display: none;">&nbsp;</span><span class="fr-mk" style="display: none;">&nbsp;</span><span class="fr-mk" style="display: none;">&nbsp;</span><span class="fr-mk" style="display: none;">&nbsp;</span><span class="fr-mk" style="display: none;">&nbsp;</span> </iframe></span></p></td></tr></tbody></table><p dir="ltr" id="isPasted">In a quest to redefine automotive prototyping and concept evaluation, BMW Group has embraced cutting-edge augmented reality (AR) technology at its Munich headquarters.</p><p dir="ltr">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.</p><h3 dir="ltr">Vehicle Concepts Visualized in 3D</h3><p dir="ltr">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.</p><p dir="ltr"><span contenteditable="false" draggable="true" class="fr-video fr-deletable fr-fvc fr-dvb fr-draggable"><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"><span class="fr-mk" style="display: none;">&nbsp;</span><span class="fr-mk" style="display: none;">&nbsp;</span><span class="fr-mk" style="display: none;">&nbsp;</span><span class="fr-mk" style="display: none;">&nbsp;</span><span class="fr-mk" style="display: none;">&nbsp;</span><span class="fr-mk" style="display: none;">&nbsp;</span><span class="fr-mk" style="display: none;">&nbsp;</span></iframe></span></p><p dir="ltr">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;</p><p dir="ltr">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.</p><h2 dir="ltr">Newly Gained Efficiency Factor with Augmented Reality</h2><p dir="ltr">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.</p><p dir="ltr"><span class="fr-img-caption fr-fic fr-dib" style="width: 790px;"><span class="fr-img-wrap"><img src="https://images.wevolver.com/eyJidWNrZXQiOiJ3ZXZvbHZlci1wcm9qZWN0LWltYWdlcyIsImtleSI6ImZyb2FsYS8xNzIxNzQ1MDQxMzM3LVA5MDQwMDE4OV9oaWdoUmVzX2F1Z21lbnRlZC1yZWFsLmpwZyIsImVkaXRzIjp7InJlc2l6ZSI6eyJ3aWR0aCI6OTUwLCJmaXQiOiJjb3ZlciJ9fX0=" style="width: 100%px;" class="fr-fic fr-dib"><span class="fr-inner">Holograms can be overlaid with real geometry (Copyright BMW Group).</span></span></span></p><h2 dir="ltr">How Hololight Space can significantly benefit the automotive industry.</h2><h3 dir="ltr">Prototyping and Design</h3><p dir="ltr">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.</p><h3 dir="ltr">Time and Cost Savings</h3><p dir="ltr">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.</p><h3 dir="ltr">Enhanced Collaboration</h3><p dir="ltr">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.</p><h3 dir="ltr">Training and Maintenance</h3><p dir="ltr">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.</p><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><p><span contenteditable="false" draggable="true" class="fr-video fr-deletable fr-fvc fr-dvb fr-draggable fr-active"><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"><span class="fr-mk" style="display: none;">&nbsp;</span><span class="fr-mk" style="display: none;">&nbsp;</span><span class="fr-mk" style="display: none;">&nbsp;</span><span class="fr-mk" style="display: none;">&nbsp;</span><span class="fr-mk" style="display: none;">&nbsp;</span> </iframe></span></p><p dir="ltr"><br></p>

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

<p dir="ltr" id="isPasted">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;</p><p dir="ltr">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;</p><p dir="ltr"><strong>Key highlights of the whitepaper:</strong></p><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><p dir="ltr">Don't miss out on these valuable insights. Get your copy of the white paper now by filling out the simple form below.&nbsp;</p><p dir="ltr"><img src="https://images.wevolver.com/eyJidWNrZXQiOiJ3ZXZvbHZlci1wcm9qZWN0LWltYWdlcyIsImtleSI6ImZyb2FsYS8xNzIxNzIyNTQyMjk2LWhvbG9saWdodCB3aGl0ZSBwYXBlciAoMSkucG5nIiwiZWRpdHMiOnsicmVzaXplIjp7IndpZHRoIjo5NTAsImZpdCI6ImNvdmVyIn19fQ==" style="width: 100%px;" class="fr-fic fr-dib"></p><p dir="ltr"><span contenteditable="false" draggable="true" class="fr-video fr-deletable fr-fvc fr-dvb fr-draggable"><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"><span class="fr-mk" style="display: none;">&nbsp;</span><span class="fr-mk" style="display: none;">&nbsp;</span><span class="fr-mk" style="display: none;">&nbsp;</span><span class="fr-mk" style="display: none;">&nbsp;</span> </iframe></span></p><hr><p id="isPasted">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.</p><p>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.</p><p>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.</p><p><img src="https://images.wevolver.com/eyJidWNrZXQiOiJ3ZXZvbHZlci1wcm9qZWN0LWltYWdlcyIsImtleSI6ImZyb2FsYS8xNzIxNzIxMzgyMjk4LUdhYnJpZWxlMl9zaW1vbnRvcGxha19jb21faG9sb2xpZ2h0X1NUTzM5NzgtY29weS0xMDI0eDY4My5qcGciLCJlZGl0cyI6eyJyZXNpemUiOnsid2lkdGgiOjk1MCwiZml0IjoiY292ZXIifX19" style="width: 100%px;" class="fr-fic fr-dib"></p><h3>Developing an Effective Augmented Reality Strategy for Companies</h3><p>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.</p><h3>Internal Expertise vs. External Partnerships in AR Development</h3><p>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.</p><p>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.</p><p>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.</p><h3 id="isPasted">Partnering with HoloLight for Augmented Reality Success</h3><p>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.</p><p>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.</p><p>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;</p><p>Download here:</p><p><span contenteditable="false" draggable="true" class="fr-video fr-deletable fr-fvc fr-dvb fr-draggable fr-active"><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"><span class="fr-mk" style="display: none;">&nbsp;</span><span class="fr-mk" style="display: none;">&nbsp;</span><span class="fr-mk" style="display: none;">&nbsp;</span><span class="fr-mk" style="display: none;">&nbsp;</span> </iframe></span></p><p><br></p>

New whitepaper: How Augmented Reality is redefining
product development.

Augmented Reality as a Booster for Industry 4.0

<table style="width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td style="width: 100%;"><h2><br>New whitepaper: AR as a Booster for Industry 4.0</h2><p dir="ltr">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;</p><p dir="ltr">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;</p><p dir="ltr"><strong>Key highlights of the whitepaper:</strong></p><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><p dir="ltr">Don't miss out on these valuable insights. Get your copy of the white paper now by filling out the simple form below.&nbsp;</p><p dir="ltr"><br></p><p dir="ltr"><span contenteditable="false" draggable="true" class="fr-video fr-deletable fr-fvc fr-dvb fr-draggable"><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"><span class="fr-mk" style="display: none;">&nbsp;</span><span class="fr-mk" style="display: none;">&nbsp;</span><span class="fr-mk" style="display: none;">&nbsp;</span><span class="fr-mk" style="display: none;">&nbsp;</span> </iframe></span></p></td></tr></tbody></table><p dir="ltr" id="isPasted">How can Augmented Reality (AR) enhance business operations? Is it beneficial for small to mid-sized companies?</p><p dir="ltr">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.</p><p dir="ltr">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;</p><h2 dir="ltr">A New Way of Engineering</h2><p dir="ltr">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.</p><p dir="ltr">“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;</p><p dir="ltr">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.</p><h2 dir="ltr">Faster Design Times with AR</h2><p dir="ltr">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;</p><p dir="ltr">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.</p><h3 dir="ltr">Incorporating Clients and Business Partners</h3><p dir="ltr">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;</p><p dir="ltr">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;</p><blockquote><p dir="ltr">“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</p></blockquote><p dir="ltr">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.</p><p dir="ltr"><img src="https://images.wevolver.com/eyJidWNrZXQiOiJ3ZXZvbHZlci1wcm9qZWN0LWltYWdlcyIsImtleSI6ImZyb2FsYS8xNzIwNTI4OTUwODk0LWhvbG8yLmpwZyIsImVkaXRzIjp7InJlc2l6ZSI6eyJ3aWR0aCI6OTUwLCJmaXQiOiJjb3ZlciJ9fX0=" style="width: 100%px;" class="fr-fic fr-dib"></p><h3 dir="ltr" id="isPasted">Augmented Reality as a Key Technology</h3><p dir="ltr">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.</p><p dir="ltr" id="isPasted">Learn more about the imapct of AR from Hololight's recent whitepaper.&nbsp;</p><p dir="ltr"><strong>Key highlights of the whitepaper:</strong></p><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><p dir="ltr">Don't miss out on these valuable insights. Get your copy of the white paper now by filling out the simple form below.&nbsp;</p><p dir="ltr"><span contenteditable="false" draggable="true" class="fr-video fr-deletable fr-fvc fr-dvb fr-draggable"><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"><span class="fr-mk" style="display: none;">&nbsp;</span><span class="fr-mk" style="display: none;">&nbsp;</span><span class="fr-mk" style="display: none;">&nbsp;</span><span class="fr-mk" style="display: none;">&nbsp;</span> </iframe></span></p><p><br></p>

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

<p dir="ltr" id="isPasted">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.</p><p dir="ltr">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;</p><table style="width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td style="width: 100%;"><h2><br>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><p dir="ltr"><strong>Key highlights of the whitepaper:</strong></p><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><p dir="ltr">Don't miss out on these valuable insights. Get your copy of the white paper now by filling out the simple form below.&nbsp;</p><br><span contenteditable="false" draggable="true" class="fr-video fr-deletable fr-fvc fr-dvb fr-draggable">&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"><span class="fr-mk" style="display: none;">&nbsp;</span><span class="fr-mk" style="display: none;">&nbsp;</span><span class="fr-mk" style="display: none;">&nbsp;</span><span class="fr-mk" style="display: none;">&nbsp;</span><span class="fr-mk" style="display: none;">&nbsp;</span><span class="fr-mk" style="display: none;">&nbsp;</span><span class="fr-mk" style="display: none;">&nbsp;</span><span class="fr-mk" style="display: none;">&nbsp;</span><span class="fr-mk" style="display: none;">&nbsp;</span><span class="fr-mk" style="display: none;">&nbsp;</span><span class="fr-mk" style="display: none;">&nbsp;</span> </iframe>&nbsp;</span></td></tr></tbody></table><h2 dir="ltr" id="isPasted">Article 1 – How Far can Augmented Reality Go?</h2><p dir="ltr">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.</p><p dir="ltr">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.</p><p dir="ltr">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>.</p><h2 dir="ltr">Article 2 – How Do You Find Individual AR Use Cases for Product Development?</h2><p dir="ltr">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;</p><p dir="ltr">Immersive AR plays two key roles:</p><ul><li dir="ltr"><p 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.</p></li><li dir="ltr"><p 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.</p></li></ul><p dir="ltr">By reducing costs, prototype iterations, and travel time, AR helps companies bring products to market faster.</p><p dir="ltr">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.</p><p dir="ltr">Read the full article <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/series-how-establish-ar-product-development-part-2-hololightgmbh/" target="_blank">here</a>.</p><h2 dir="ltr">Article 3 – How Do We Ensure Occupational Safety &amp; Technology Adoption?</h2><p dir="ltr">The third article of the series tackles two key concerns for companies considering AR: worker safety and employee adoption.</p><h3 dir="ltr">Safety First</h3><p dir="ltr">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.</p><h3 dir="ltr">Building an AR Fan Club</h3><p dir="ltr">Your company needs employees who are passionate advocates and champions for AR, promoting it internally.</p><ul><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr">Lead by Example: They should actively use and promote AR, showcasing its benefits across departments.</p></li><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr">Speak Up: They should advocate for AR at external events, generating excitement and buy-in.</p></li><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr">Focus on Results: They should back their claims with concrete examples and success stories from AR pilot projects.</p></li></ul><h3 dir="ltr">Experience Days: Building Momentum</h3><p dir="ltr">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.</p><p dir="ltr">Sharing ideas and seeing AR in action creates an internal innovation network where employees learn from each other and discover new possibilities.</p><p dir="ltr">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.<br><br>Read the full article <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/series-how-establish-ar-product-development-part-3-hololightgmbh/" target="_blank">here</a>.</p><p><img src="https://images.wevolver.com/eyJidWNrZXQiOiJ3ZXZvbHZlci1wcm9qZWN0LWltYWdlcyIsImtleSI6ImZyb2FsYS8xNzE5NDE1MjMxMzkxLTIwMjQtMDYtMDZfd2V2b2x2ZV9HcmFmaWtfMTQ0MHg4MTBfNCAoMSkucG5nIiwiZWRpdHMiOnsicmVzaXplIjp7IndpZHRoIjo5NTAsImZpdCI6ImNvdmVyIn19fQ==" style="width: 100%px;" class="fr-fic fr-dib"></p><h2 dir="ltr" id="isPasted">Article 4 – What about IT Integration and Data Security?</h2><p dir="ltr">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.</p><p dir="ltr">For smooth integration and scalability, your AR platform should:</p><ul><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr">Support multiple devices, similar to how WhatsApp works on various smartphones.</p></li><li dir="ltr"><p 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.</p></li></ul><p dir="ltr">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.</p><p dir="ltr">Read the full article <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/series-how-establish-ar-product-development-part-4-hololightgmbh/" target="_blank">here</a>.</p><h2 dir="ltr">Article 5 – What is the ROI of AR?&nbsp;</h2><p dir="ltr">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.</p><h3 dir="ltr">Identifying AR's Impact</h3><p dir="ltr">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.</p><p dir="ltr">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.</p><h3 dir="ltr">Measuring Success</h3><p dir="ltr">Companies can track ROI at various stages of product development. Here are some key metrics discussed in this article:</p><ul><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr">Time saved through collaborative work on digital prototypes</p></li><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr">Material savings from using virtual models</p></li><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr">Prototype iteration speed compared to traditional methods</p></li><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr">Number of defects found and fixed in prototypes</p></li><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr">Reduced travel time</p></li></ul><p dir="ltr">Read the full article <a href="https://hololight.com/series-how-to-establish-ar-in-product-development-part-5/" target="_blank">here</a>.</p><h2 dir="ltr">Article 6 – Who Will Drive AR Technology in the Future?</h2><p dir="ltr">This final article of the series discusses leadership and the future of AR in business.</p><h3 dir="ltr">AR Adoption: Beyond Initial Steps</h3><p dir="ltr">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.</p><h3 dir="ltr">Ownership and Vision</h3><ul><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr">Clearly define ownership of AR projects and the overall "Industrial Metaverse" strategy. This fosters enterprise-wide adoption.</p></li><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr">Titles like "Mixed Reality Solutions Lead" or "Chief Metaverse Officer" reflect the growing importance of AR leadership.</p></li></ul><h3 dir="ltr">The Industrial Metaverse Advantage</h3><ul><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr">Companies that embrace AR now gain an "early adopter" advantage, similar to those with an early web presence in the 90s.</p></li><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr">Immersive AR is the key to entering the Industrial Metaverse, a future where virtual and real worlds converge across all business areas.</p></li></ul><p dir="ltr">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>.</p><h2 dir="ltr">Final Words – Stepping into the Industrial Metaverse with AR</h2><p dir="ltr">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.</p><p dir="ltr">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.</p><p dir="ltr">Check out the informative webinar from Hololight to learn more about the opportunities associated with implementing AR within your business.&nbsp;</p><p dir="ltr">What you’ll learn</p><ul><li dir="ltr"><p 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.</p></li><li dir="ltr"><p 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.</p></li><li dir="ltr"><p dir="ltr">The webinar includes technical discussions on the scalability and adaptability of AR solutions.</p></li></ul><h3 dir="ltr">How to Access the whitepaper</h3><p dir="ltr">Accessing the whitepaper is straightforward. Register below and gain immediate access to this valuable resource.&nbsp;</p><p dir="ltr"><span contenteditable="false" draggable="true" class="fr-video fr-deletable fr-fvc fr-dvb fr-draggable">&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"><span class="fr-mk" style="display: none;">&nbsp;</span><span class="fr-mk" style="display: none;">&nbsp;</span><span class="fr-mk" style="display: none;">&nbsp;</span><span class="fr-mk" style="display: none;">&nbsp;</span><span class="fr-mk" style="display: none;">&nbsp;</span><span class="fr-mk" style="display: none;">&nbsp;</span><span class="fr-mk" style="display: none;">&nbsp;</span><span class="fr-mk" style="display: none;">&nbsp;</span><span class="fr-mk" style="display: none;">&nbsp;</span><span class="fr-mk" style="display: none;">&nbsp;</span><span class="fr-mk" style="display: none;">&nbsp;</span> </iframe>&nbsp;</span></p><p>This article was edited by Hiba Akbar.&nbsp;</p>

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?

<p><strong>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.</strong></p><p id="isPasted">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.</p><p>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.</p><p><a target="_blank"></a></p><header><h2>Shifty</h2></header><p>"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.</p><p><a target="_blank"></a></p><header><h2>Drag:on</h2></header><p>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.</p><p><a target="_blank"></a></p><header><h2>Similarity and colocation problem</h2></header><p>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.</p><p>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.</p><p>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.</p><hr><p><strong>Original Publication:&nbsp;</strong>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></p>

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

<p><strong>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.</strong></p><p>“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"><em>Nature</em></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.</p><p>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.</p><p>“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.</p><p><span class="fr-img-caption fr-fic fr-dib" style="width: 790px;"><span class="fr-img-wrap"><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"><span class="fr-inner">New holographic augmented reality system that enables more compact 3D displays | Image courtesy of Andrew Brodhead</span></span></span></p><h2 id="isPasted">Barriers overcome</h2><p>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.</p><p>“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.</p><p>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.</p><p>“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.</p><p>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.</p><p>“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.</p><h2>Killer app</h2><p>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.</p><p>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.</p><p>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.</p><p><span class="fr-img-caption fr-fic fr-dib" style="width: 790px;"><span class="fr-img-wrap"><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"><span class="fr-inner">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</span></span></span></p><h2 id="isPasted">Life-like quality</h2><p>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.</p><p>“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.</p><p>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.</p><p>“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.”</p><p><em>Additional authors are from The University of Hong Kong and NVIDIA. Wetzstein is also member of&nbsp;</em><a href="http://biox.stanford.edu/" data-extlink="" target="_blank"><em>Stanford Bio-X</em></a><em>, the&nbsp;</em><a href="https://humanperformance.stanford.edu/" data-extlink="" target="_blank"><em>Wu Tsai Human Performance Alliance</em></a><em>, and the&nbsp;</em><a href="https://neuroinstitute.stanford.edu/" data-extlink="" target="_blank"><em>Wu Tsai Neurosciences Institute</em></a><em>.</em></p>

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

<p id="isPasted">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.</p><p>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.</p><p>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.</p><p>“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.</p><p>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.</p><p><span class="fr-img-caption fr-fic fr-dib" style="width: 790px;"><span class="fr-img-wrap"><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"><span class="fr-inner">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.</span></span></span></p><p id="isPasted">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.</p><p>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.</p><p>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.</p><p>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.”</p><p><em>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.</em></p>

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.

Holographic displays offer a glimpse into an immersive future

<p id="isPasted">As augmented and mixed reality experiences become more popular through various devices, advancements in battery technologies are needed to ensure that these crucial components are made smaller, yet maintain their functionality. One <a href="https://www.mse.engineering.cmu.edu/index.html" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Department of Materials Science and Engineering</a> alumnus is involved with developing the technologies needed to bring these products to market at Meta.</p><p>As a battery system engineer, Ankur Gupta, BS’10, MS’10, takes an interdisciplinary approach rooted in his studies at CMU to working with the multiple teams of engineers involved in the development of devices such as the Quest 3 and Ray-Ban | Meta smart glasses.</p><p><img src="https://images.wevolver.com/eyJidWNrZXQiOiJ3ZXZvbHZlci1wcm9qZWN0LWltYWdlcyIsImtleSI6ImZyb2FsYS8xNzA4MDk3Njk5MzE2LTAyMDktZW0tZnV0dXJlLXZpc2lvbi5wbmciLCJlZGl0cyI6eyJyZXNpemUiOnsid2lkdGgiOjk1MCwiZml0IjoiY292ZXIifX19" style="width: 300px;" class="fr-fic fr-dib"></p><p id="isPasted">At one end of the spectrum, he works with cell engineers, often chemical and materials science engineers, who design the chemistry inside the cell. &nbsp;At the other end, Gupta coordinates with the product design team, typically mechanical engineers, who are creating the physical design of what the actual active material has to fit into. Gupta bridges the work of these two groups, drawing on the experiences he had as a student, taking their outputs and designing the battery management unit (BMU). The BMU in the Ray-Ban | Meta smart glasses is now the world’s smallest and has all the circuitry for protection, gauging, and charging.</p><p>Gupta’s interest in electronic materials was nurtured through his work with <a href="https://engineering.cmu.edu/directory/bios/whitacre-jay.html" target="_blank">Jay Whitacre</a>, professor of materials science and engineering, on batteries and energy technologies. When Gupta first enrolled as a student in the College of Engineering at Carnegie Mellon, he had no idea what materials science was. His initial interest was in electrical engineering, though he was also curious about nanotechnology. In his first year, he took the introduction to materials science and engineering course, and he was immediately drawn in. Later in his studies, Whitacre encouraged Gupta to think through bringing concepts to mass production, taking into account the economic influences and incremental changes in materials technologies.</p><p>“The idea of taking a concept and actually bringing it to mass production has stuck with me, both in my past role at Apple and now at Meta,” says Gupta, as he reflects on projects involving batteries for devices such as iPhones, Airpods, Apple Watches, and now the Quest 3 and Ray-Ban | Meta smart glasses.</p><p>While he did eventually go on to pursue a graduate degree in electrical engineering, he attributes his continued education to his background in materials science.</p><p>“The reason why I went back to electric engineering was because of my foundation in materials science, especially in batteries,” says Gupta. “I knew how batteries were made and how they worked, but I wanted to go beyond that.”</p><p>Gupta credits Carnegie Mellon’s emphasis on interdisciplinary studies focused on next generation problems to fostering his interest in batteries, as well as his approach to his work.</p><p>“Batteries in particular are extremely interdisciplinary. There’s the chemistry side with materials science, the mechanical side of physically making the cell, the electrical side of what to do with the energy that comes out of the cell, and the economic side of building a supply chain.”</p><blockquote><p>The idea of taking a concept and actually bringing it to mass production has stuck with me.</p><cite><strong>Ankur Gupta<cite id="isPasted">, MSE'10</cite></strong><br></cite></blockquote><p>Gupta draws on his materials science foundation still in his career today, recalling insights from Professor <a href="https://engineering.cmu.edu/directory/bios/heard-robert.html" target="_blank">Robert Heard</a>, who encouraged students to dive deep into a problem and think about it “at an atomic scale.”</p><p>“For battery packs, we have to really dive into the printed circuit board (PCB) materials. Even though it’s electrical engineering, it’s also materials science getting into what’s going on at the atomic level.”</p><p>Gupta draws on his own personal experiences of using the smart glasses to capture a photo, rather than trying to find his phone, to illustrate the ability that AR could have for users to experience the world, rather than looking down at phones. As Meta moves forward with developments for the Quest line of products with the goal of eventually functioning as a replacement to a traditional laptop, refining batteries to meet product design and functionality needs will be imperative.</p><p>“Some of the key steps involve being able to have a battery that can power all that a laptop can do, but in the size of a phone,” he says. “It takes a lot of engineering and innovation to compact all these features into a very small product.’</p><p>The pathway to a career in industry was not always clear, as the role of materials science in similar companies is not always immediately recognized, but Gupta encourages current students to think outside traditional career pathways.</p><p>“If you think that there’s a way for materials to impact a certain industry, there probably is,” he says. “Make connections, and you can find a way to show there is an avenue.”</p>

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