Mobile-Based augmented reality (AR) module for guided operations of CNC surface roughness machine

Abstract

Immersive technologies are gaining considerable traction in manufacturing industries to address issues linked with the shortage of skilled workforce. Augmented Reality (AR) is one of the technologies with great potential to address this problem due to simplified hardware requirements and adaptability to various domains. The present work utilizes AR technology in the context of machine operation guidance to solve the problem of skilled human resources for operating delicate manufacturing machines. A mobile-based AR application has been developed using the Vuforia engine and Unity 3D platform for a CNC surface roughness machine. The AR module is designed to assist and guide novice operators in efficiently executing various machine setting, operation, and software utilization tasks. The subjective and objective evaluation of the developed system has been carried out to capture user feedback and review. It has been demonstrated that the developed mobile-based AR module offers extensive utility, ease of operation, and practical utility.© 2023 Society of Manufacturing Engineers (SME). Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.This is an open access article under the CC BY-NC-ND license (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0/)Peer-review under responsibility of the Scientific Committee of the NAMRI/SME.