The adoption of augmented reality has come a long way in recent years, especially as the global economy has looked to improve operational efficiency and safety training measures through the implementation of new technologies. In an aviation industry where training is paramount, AR is set to make a profound impact.
Today augmented reality technology is already being developed at a rapid rate, with its influence extending way beyond aviation applications.
(Image: Business Wire)
Here we can see that both augmented reality and virtual reality markets are set to experience incremental growth of over $125 billion dollars as the decade continues at a CAGR of over 35%.
This significant growth will have a profound impact on a range of industries and is likely to heavily influence the world of aviation.
How AR Can Aid Aviation
The next wave of innovation in the aviation industry will be heavily influenced by AR technology. Using artificial intelligence, real-time information can be used in the form of text, images and audio enhancements integrated with actual objects.
From computers to personal mobile devices, technology has significantly impacted the way we communicate and engage with each other. AR has now reached a point where a modern organisation can use it as an efficient tool for improving business processes, workflows and employee workplace training. These technological innovations impact a wide range of industries, and in this regard aviation is no exception.
Immersive Training
For any plane to be able to fly safely, a large, skilled ground crew is critical. These are the people who maintain the aircraft and ensure that it’s in an optimal condition to fly.
While virtual reality is already used for the in-flight simulation training for pilots, AR can be utilised for ground crew training. For example, aircraft engineers can use augmented reality glasses to simulate and test installation processes while maintenance crews can use interactive inspection instructions with digital arrows and labels to ensure that their work is carried out with no signs of error.
In a case study carried out by the University of Bologna, a prototype AR system was created to provide an animated and marker-free representation of the aircraft parts that needed to be checked. Results indicated that the augmented reality setup aided the crew in performing specific tasks by emulating what was displayed by following step-by-step guides incorporated in the system.
Using AR eyewear, aviation ground crew can perform tasks in their training setups without the risk of error that could seriously impact lives. Mesmerise VR has actively worked to develop hyper–realistic training scenarios for training purposes in high-risk and dangerous worker roles to create a better level of safety when applying hands-on learning experiences to real-world situations like in the case of ground crew.
Comprehensive Cockpit Control
The influence of AR can be felt sky-high, too. Aero Glass has developed a headset that pilots can wear to view cockpit control information like altimeter readings, fuel pressure, heading and oil temperature all within a display that sits in the glass lenses of the headset.
Aero Glass first entered the headlines in 2016 when Airbus BizLab selected their technology as one to help become transformed into a business proposition. The head-worn display concept has also received significant funding from the European Union’s Horizon 2020 research and innovation program.
Augmented Aircraft Maintenance
The application of augmented reality in aircraft maintenance can result in significant benefits in terms of safety. Commercial flight engineers can potentially leverage AR to inspect and maintain their aircraft, while the technology itself offers real-time insights with a combination of other innovative solutions through 3D scanning, sensors and other new developments.
With such a comprehensive insight into the components and inner workings of aircraft, maintenance tasks can become incredibly successful, which adds an extra layer of safety to the industry.
When it comes to 3D scanning, augmented reality technology offers a clear visual of the aircraft, which can allow engineers to easily identify dents, scratches and other issues with the machinery itself. The technology is already available in military fields and now commercial aviation is starting to sit up and take note of its growing importance.
With the exponential growth of the AR industry underway, its potential for the world of aviation is strikingly clear. In an environment with such little room for error, augmented reality can play an invaluable role in delivering accuracy and efficiency across the world of aviation in its entirety.
Technology will accelerate the levels of safety in industries where a lack of understanding or clarity can bring with it disastrous consequences. With this in mind, the successful growth and implementation of AR within aviation is essential for adding an extra layer of competence and reassurance in an essential form of travel.
