IIoT based Augmented Reality for Factory Data Collection and Visualization

Abstract

In Industry 4.0, machine data acquisition plays an important role in improving overall performance on the factory floor by monitoring processes, providing feedback, and integrating the information with other machines. Leveraging these hidden data instantaneously to reduce machine downtime could also minimize efforts in determining the causes of maintenance issues. This paper explores a novel method of bringing the factory floor data into an Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) environment and visualizing real-time machine analytics through Augmented Reality (AR) and Mixed Reality (MR) based smart devices. The factory floor data from selective machines at a Volvo Group plant was integrated with IIoT and visualized in real-time through the use of AR-enabled devices such as an iPad and a HoloLens headset. The configuration process for the server and IIoT environment was automated through a software solution, and the performance and feasibility of spatial anchors were evaluated by testing accuracy, triggering times, and latency of data. The results displayed promising applications of AR/MR on factory floors for real-time machine data visualization and associated troubleshooting.