Emerson, St. Louis, MO, has introduced augmented reality (AR) technology to its Plantweb Optims asset-performance platform. As the company notes, this integration can deliver improved productivity, collaboration, and operational performance in plants and facilities, despite limitations that could arise from skilled-worker shortages or travel restrictions.

Part of Emerson’s Plantweb digital ecosystem, Plantweb Optics leverages artificial intelligence, machine-learning analytics, and data contextualization to provide real-time visibility into plant reliability and operational performance. Unlike standalone AR solutions that require custom engineering, integration of the technology into the Plantweb Optics software allows immediate access to a wealth of data, which, which, according to the company, translates into easier, less-costly implementation and a faster ROI.

HOW IT WORKS
Augmented reality for Plantweb Optics is said to transform the way field technicians accomplish complex tasks through enhanced situational awareness, live remote assistance, and analytics delivered in context of the plant. As a technician with a mobile device enters an industrial  The software uses spatial computing technology to map assets and provide critical maintenance information relevant to their location. Real-time analytics, equipment-health status, and technical support documentation over-laid on the field of view lead to safe, quick problem resolution.

With the live remote assistance offered through Plantweb Optics, field personnel 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. This type of assistance allows technicians and experts to collaborate on troubleshooting and repairs, regardless of location and without travel costs. Live-remote-assistance sessions, best practices, 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. The knowledge library is a resource for companies to standardize procedures and ensure engineers of all experience levels understand an asset’s history and are using best practices for safe, efficient operations.

Click Here for more information on Emerson’s Plantweb Optics. 

Click Here for more information on Emerson’s Plantweb digital ecosystem.