Emerson has added augmented reality (AR) technology to its Plantweb™ Optics asset performance platform as it looks to deliver enhanced access to real-time diagnostics and analytics, as well as live remote assistance, to those responsible for maintaining and optimising plant equipment.
With AR technology integrated into Plantweb Optics, companies can improve productivity, collaboration and operational performance without being limited by shortages of skilled workers or travel restrictions, the company said.
Stuart Harris, Group President for Emerson’s Digital Transformation Business, said: “Successful digital transformation programs that lead to top quartile performance have people and work practices as a key focus. Adopting innovative technology like augmented reality and institutionalising best practices enable workers to add more value than ever to operational and business performance.
“With these new Plantweb Optics technologies, customers can experience significant improvements in equipment reliability and the safety of their facilities.”
Plantweb Optics leverages artificial intelligence, machine learning analytics and data contextualisation to provide real-time visibility into plant reliability and operational performance, according to the company.
“Unlike standalone AR solutions that require custom engineering, AR is integrated into Plantweb Optics, providing immediate access to a wealth of data and translating into easier, less costly implementation and a faster return on investment,” Emerson said.
In use at metals and mining operations, Plantweb Optics is part of Emerson’s Plantweb digital ecosystem of technologies, software and services.
“Augmented reality for Plantweb Optics transforms the way field technicians accomplish complex tasks through enhanced situational awareness, live remote assistance and analytics delivered in context of the plant,” the company said. “As a field technician walks an industrial plant with a mobile device, Plantweb Optics uses spatial computing technology to map assets and provide technicians with critical maintenance information relevant to their location. Plantweb Optics overlays real-time analytics, equipment health status and technical support documentation on their field of view, so technicians can safely resolve issues sooner.”
With live remote assistance, field technicians can be virtually shadowed by experts, either on-site or off-site, from Emerson, their own company or another service provider. Experts can talk, type or augment the technician’s mobile display with graphics to guide the next action, according to the company.
“Live remote assistance enables technicians and experts to collaborate for safe troubleshooting and repairs, regardless of location and without travel costs,” Emerson said. “Live remote assistance sessions, best practices and notes from experienced engineers and step-by-step troubleshooting procedures can be logged into a knowledge library for use by all engineers at a site.”