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The Internet of Things (IoT), and augmented reality, (AR) are often discussed separately. However, the applications are often compelling. AR and IoT could be even more powerful when combined in the same project.
Although such combinations are not yet mainstream, they are becoming more popular. AR IoT projects can produce impressive results if people have the ability to rely on both technologies simultaneously.
1. Enabling Real-Time Navigation and Location-Based Information
Mobile app developers must be aware of the customer’s needs and preferences as well as how technology can help them make the most of their experience. Brand leaders can capitalize on the opportunities presented by IoT or AR.
The IoT offers a way to gain valuable information about customers without being intrusive. Imagine a situation where a retail manager finds many customers first landing on a website when they say a smart speaker prompt.
The store’s tech team may develop a smart speaker skill to make it easier for customers to use verbal commands and find the right item. Voice-enabled device interactions could eventually replace chatbots and customer service representatives, according to some.
There are many other opportunities than retail. Factory leaders may encourage employees to use the connected wearables to identify which activities are most likely to cause injury. They could then make changes to improve safety. The possibilities for people to navigate in unfamiliar environments are especially evident when AR and IoT are used together.
One discount pharmacy chain wanted to place thousands of IoT sensors inside retail stores. They would then use AR smartphone apps to provide store guidance. People could then quickly find what they were looking for, even if it was not in the pharmacy. This would decrease frustration and increase the likelihood of people returning to the pharmacy.
AR IoT projects have been developed during the research phase to show what is possible. One was using dynamic and connected LED markers to provide safer walking routes in a smart urban area. A second portion of the discussion was dedicated to traffic management and accessibility.
2. Filling the Talent Gap and Training Gap
It is difficult to learn all that professionals today need through traditional learning methods like lectures and textbooks. The Internet of Things can be a great tool, but it can also pose security risks to companies that use it. A study on businesses using IoT solutions revealed that only 37% of respondents had tracked cyber exposures due to third-party entities.
Companies that specialize in cybersecurity education may be able to modernize their curriculum by offering AR-enhanced modules. When people move from training to the real world, they need to be better prepared to identify, prevent and address online threats.
Manufacturing is also experiencing skills shortages. Some leaders in this space recognize that AR IoT projects can close the gap. It could also improve training and make it more relevant for future generations. People will be more inclined to stay in their jobs if they feel that their workforce education is relevant and engaging. They might even invite friends to join them in their workplace.
Training with AR and IoT could help employees make better decisions faster. Many workplaces use wearables to monitor metrics such as their body position when lifting heavy objects or sitting at a desk. These IoT devices can detect problems and provide real-time instructions on how to correct them. This helps them to form good and lasting habits.
Companies could benefit from combining AR and IoT to identify training opportunities. IoT sensors continuously collect data to show which processes are prone to error. These areas might be the most important to focus on when developing AR-based training modules or programs.
3. Improve Maintenance Calls with AR IoT Projects
The IoT has made it easier for company leaders to keep critical equipment running smoothly. Smart sensors can collect 24/7 data so that maintenance teams can spot problems before they become disruptive failures. A predictive maintenance strategy could save up to 40% from over-reactive strategies. Augmented reality with IoT allows technicians to view what’s going on with a machine from a distance without having to visit the site.
Augmented reality is often referred to as the IoT’s interface. If someone is working with complicated machinery, they will appreciate the guidance that tells them which part needs to be addressed. While the IoT provides that guidance, its sensors gather data to inform the technician of any problems.
This combination of IoT-AR was valuable during the COVID-19 epidemic. One company offered remote assistance to 200 employees in the midst of the health crisis. This allowed them to continue making service calls and not have to travel. Remote access to a machine with AR can also be a time-saving and cost-saving tool. This is especially important when the equipment is malfunctioning.
In-person inspections often require people to examine the problem, order the part, and then return to the place it. The process could be more efficient if AR and IoT sensors showed what was happening earlier.
AR and IoT can be used together to provide real-time assistance for newer technicians. It is easy to see the benefits of using AR apps to diagnose a problem and then use the checklist or manual to resolve the issue.
4. Use the IoT/AR During Emergency Evacuations
While people might carefully review the safety recommendations when responding to emergency situations, it is often difficult to apply what they have learned to everyday life. AR IoT projects can help people practice using a fire extinguisher, or finding safe exits by tracking their position and providing feedback.
Cloud-based IoT solutions can help property managers evaluate the real-time risks from problems like fires, gas leaks, or electrical problems. If the products are equipped with artificial intelligence, they can reduce threats. What is the best way to use augmented reality on these IoT platforms for this purpose? AR is a project that a schoolboy uses to create a green path in someone’s real-world surroundings to help him escape from a fire.
This tool can also point you to nearby alarms or fire extinguishers. This is vital as people can get lost in fire-related emergencies. The AR app will soon have a “rescue-me” button. The app would transmit the location of the person to firefighters to help them get to safety as quickly as possible. This would allow the person in distress to view live streaming footage via their smartphone’s camera.
AR IoT projects can serve multiple purposes, including keeping people safe in dangerous situations. One system can detect gas and send fire to connected sensors. It sends emergency messages via smartphones to warn people of the danger. An AR component then guides the person to an evacuation route that takes them from their current location to a safe area.
These solutions will be even more useful as taller, larger buildings are built to accommodate urban growth. These options can help to get occupants safe.
5. Supporting First Responders’ Resource Utilization
First responders are responsible for arriving at the scene of injuries, illness, or other distress as quickly as possible. They have to figure out how to get to the destination fastest, as well as deal with weather and traffic.
The CHARIoT Challenge was a project that combined AR and the IoT in order to help first responders with their demanding jobs. The IoT component of the initiative increased situational awareness by providing previously unobtainable information. The AR aspect provided dispatchers with actionable data to support public security. The AR interface can help responders avoid traffic backups and make it easier to find the fastest route to the scene.
This project was demonstrated by the people involved in it. It worked in a variety of situations including active shooter incidents and wildfires. First responders don’t know what they may encounter when attending an emergency. AR and IoT platforms should be able to account for this reality.
AR and IoT Can Make a Perfect Pair
The best way to combine augmented reality and the Internet of Things requires time and money. It’s good to know that both technologies are more commonly used and readily available in today’s society. It should therefore be easier to find viable use cases and technology providers that can help bring your ideas to life.
When considering exploring AR and IoT, people should have clear goals and expectations about the technology’s ability to meet them. This will make it easier for decision-makers to see the benefits of their investments and make meaningful impacts.
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