Augmented reality is changing how manufacturing execution systems are implemented

Typically, the effective use of manufacturing execution systems (MES) is limited by human machine interfaces (HMIs), such as touch-screen panels and scanners, which require the user to repeatedly walk up to them for interaction. This non-value-adding activity takes away the time which can be used in the manufacturing process. Augmented reality addresses this issue and improves productivity, and in turn quality and process compliance in manufacturing. It also ensures safety by making operations ‘contact less’. The benefits of augmented reality (AR) technology in manufacturing are many:

- Elimination of physical interactions with HMI infrastructure, thereby improving productivity.

- Improvement in quality inspection and repair processes with 3D views, remote video assistance, equipment, and machine catalogues.

- Expanding the scope of AR usage to equipment maintenance and user training for remote maintenance and elimination of physical training infrastructure.