Emerson reported June 18 that it's added augmented reality (AR) technology to its Plantweb Optics asset performance platform to provide enhanced access to real-time diagnostics and analytics, as well as live remote assistance to personnel responsible for maintaining and optimizing plant equipment. With AR technology integrated into Plantweb Optics, users can improve productivity, collaboration and operational performance without being limited by shortages of skilled workers or travel restrictions.
“Successful digital transformation programs that lead to top-quartile performance have people and work practices as a key focus. Adopting innovative technology like AR and institutionalizing best practices enable workers to add more value than ever to operational and business performance,” says Stuart Harris, group president for Emerson’s digital transformation business. “With these new Plantweb Optics technologies, customers can experience significant improvements in equipment reliability and the safety of their facilities.”
Plantweb Optics uses artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML) analytics and data contextualization to provide real-time visibility into plant reliability and operational performance. Unlike standalone AR solutions that require custom engineering, integrating AR into Plantweb Optics, provides immediate access to data and translates to easier, less costly implementation and a faster return on investment. AR 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. 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.
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 standardize procedures and ensure engineers of all experience levels understand an asset’s history and are using best practices for safe, efficient operations.
