Glartek has launched its visual remote assistance platform for Microsoft HoloLens 2. This headset is the leading hands-free device for augmented reality (AR) in the market and helps operators, working in manufacturing and asset-intensive industries, collaborate, resolve issues, and reduce downtime.
This type of device and compatible digital solutions come after many companies across the industrial sector began their path toward digital transformation. This wider movement has often focused on the digitization of work instructions and ending paper-based processes. However, the introduction of augmented reality-based functionalities has also led to the development of remote assistance features. The Microsoft HoloLens 2 along with Galrtek’s software, enables a new age of visual remote assistance supported by AR.
About the Microsoft HoloLens 2
The Microsoft HoloLens 2 relies on wireless holographic technology designed to improve workers’ performance. It can run several applications to help manage teams and task-related information. When using this device, users will be able to see their immediate field of view plus digital elements naturally combined with reality. This makes it possible to perform a 3D mapping of a specific location and augment the reality around us.
Nonetheless, the capabilities of AR go beyond just allowing virtual elements to be mixed with the real world. Workers can remotely interact in real-time with colleagues for all sorts of purposes.
A new reality for hands-free operations in the Industry
The merge of Visual Remote Assistance and the Microsoft HoloLens 2 provides the best connection between onsite workers, customers, field technicians, and remote experts, among others.
Visual remote assistance combined with HoloLens 2 enables collaborative maintenance, repairs, remote inspections, as well as knowledge sharing and training. By using this functionality, workers can also always find a specialist available to help them solve technical issues.
Visual remote assistance calls, supported by AR, can combine video, screenshots, and 3D annotations to solve problems in real-time. Specialists can insert images, schematics, and other information into the worker’s field of vision so they are guided while working hands-free.
Ultimately, the Microsoft HoloLens 2 combined with visual remote assistance functionalities allows remote experts to efficiently assist workers. In addition, it has a significant impact on reducing downtime, transforming the workforce, and creating more agile factories.
Visual Remote Assistance on the HoloLens 2: how does it work?
Initiating a video session using the Microsoft HoloLens 2 is extremely simple. Users only need to raise their hand to start using the Visual Remote Assistance application on the device. Once a session begins, remote specialists will get to see on their screen exactly what employees are seeing using the headset.
During the live session, specialists can provide employees with all the necessary information by adding elements directly to their field of vision. This can include documents, videos, dashboards, circuit diagrams, etc.
The ‘Live AR Drawing’ function also allows users to add annotations such as lines, arrows, or text boxes which are fixed according to the mapping of the physical objects within the employee’s field of vision. Such technologies also include core functionalities that enable extensive improvements to the daily work of frontline teams.
The evolution of assistance in the industry
In many cases, the Covid-19 pandemic has resulted in an acceleration of the adoption of Augmented and Mixed Reality-based features. As a result, visual remote assistance functionalities have become the most popular application for the HoloLens 2. Overall, these features help companies cut costs related to traveling and provide assistance to frontline teams.
In addition, Augmented Reality functionalities are constantly being improved to make the customer journey more accessible.
Learn more
Glartek is part of Microsoft Mixed Reality’s distributor pattern program and is an official distributor of Microsoft HoloLens 2. To learn more about our technology you can visit our website or schedule a free demonstration.
