Emerson, a global automation technology and engineering company, said it has recently introduced augmented reality (AR) technology to its Plantweb Optics asset performance platform, delivering enhanced access to real-time diagnostics and analytics, as well as live remote assistance, to industrial plant workers 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, said the statement from Emerson.

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, 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, it stated.

Emerson Group President (Digital Transformation) Stuart Harris said: "Successful digital transformation programmes 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," he added.

Harris said: "With these new Plantweb Optics technologies, customers can experience significant improvements in equipment reliability and the safety of their facilities."

"For use by manufacturers in the life sciences, food and beverage, chemical, metals and mining, power and water, pulp and paper and energy industries, Plantweb Optics is part of Emerson’s award-winning Plantweb digital ecosystem of technologies, software and services," he added.

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 statement 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.

The augmented and virtual reality market is projected to grow annually at 40 per cent from 2017 through 2025, according to multiple research reports. Much of this spending will come from manufacturers around the globe using AR technology to help upskill their workforce for digitalised operations.

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. Live remote assistance enables technicians and experts to collaborate for safe troubleshooting and repairs, regardless of location and without travel costs.

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. The knowledge library is a resource for companies to standardise procedures and ensure engineers of all experience levels understand an asset’s history and are using best practices for safe, efficient operations.

Headquartered in St Louis, Missouri (USA), Emerson is a global technology and engineering company providing innovative solutions for customers in industrial, commercial and residential markets. The company’s Emerson Automation Solutions business helps process, hybrid and discrete manufacturers maximise production, protect personnel and the environment while optimising their energy and operating costs. Its Emerson Commercial & Residential Solutions business helps ensure human comfort and health, protect food quality and safety, advance energy efficiency and create sustainable infrastructure.