How to choose a wearable AR device

Technological evolution has made significant strides in recent years, completely transforming the way in which we interact between the real and virtual worlds. One of the most interesting innovations is wearable technology based on augmented reality, a trend that is becoming increasingly widespread among companies in all sectors.

Wearable AR devices guarantee many benefits, including an increase in productivity, heightened safety and cost reductions in a variety of fields and applications. However, to best exploit the opportunities that these technologies offer, you need to know how to choose the right wearable AR device for your organisation. Here are some useful tips and information.

What are industrial wearable devices?

Industrial wearable devices are mobile devices specifically for industrial applications. These devices increase employee efficiency and safety, opening new doors for companies keen to implement wearable AR solutions. These technologies are suitable for a number of different sectors, including the oil & gas, automotive, mechanical and manufacturing industries, to name but a few.

Wearable AR devices are especially designed to be hands-free, to allow workers to use both their hands when working in the field. This optimises working performance through the use of digital support content, remote information and assistance using devices such as AR headsets that promote multitasking and remote collaboration.

Applications of wearable AR devices

Wearable AR devices have many applications. These technologies allow you to make field operations, such as inspections, maintenance and training, more effective. Operators can go about their work while wearing special AR headsets as experts follow their actions remotely, guiding technicians by uploading information and digital content that the workers can see in their visual field without occupying their hands, for example.

Wearable technologies can offer considerable added value to manufacturing processes, by improving vehicle assembly productivity, for example. In addition, these solutions can be applied to the prevention of risks and improvements in safety standards, facilitating the integration of systems and reducing company costs in countless operational settings.

How to choose a smart wearable device with AR

When choosing a wearable AR device, it is important to pay careful attention to a number of factors:

• Intended use: firstly, you need to take into account your specific needs in order to be sure of pinpointing the wearable device most suited to the type of activity to be carried out (inspections, design, assistance, training).
• Compatibility: the device must be compatible with the current company systems, both mobile and fixed devices, as well as able to interface with the organisation’s software to take advantage of maximum system integration.
• Comfort and quality: the wearable AR device needs to guarantee a good level of operator comfort, given that it will usually be worn for several hours while they are working; it should also be made from quality materials.
• Interactive user experience: the wearable AR must ensure an immersive and engaging user experience, with good operator interaction with the real/virtual setting through simple, convenient and intuitive commands.
• Price and reliability: the wearable AR technologies must be available at an accessible and economically sustainable price, in keeping with the financial demands of your company; don’t forget to guarantee maximum reliability and efficiency by always checking the manufacturer’s reputation.
• Devices linked to the wearable technology: wearable devices are just one element in a complete AR solution; in addition to the headset, for example, you also need to consider the AR web platform and AR mobile app, an ecosystem that needs to be capable of guaranteeing optimum interaction in all circumstances.
• Performance and functionality: it is important that the wearable AR device provides a wide viewing angle and long autonomy. It must be simple and intuitive to use, with functionalities suitable for the type of activities to be carried out, such as viewing thermal images for inspections.
• Display Quality: it’s essential that the wearable device has a clear, high-resolution display to ensure a clear view of information and graphics, even in the most challenging weather conditions.

Kiber 3: the all-in-one wearable solution for industry

A great many companies have chosen Kiber 3 as their all-in-one wearable AR solution with 5G connectivity, cutting-edge technology for optimising field activities including maintenance, inspections, training and installations. One of the main elements is the Kiber 3 Kit AR headset, certified ATEX Zone 1 for use in dangerous places and made from polyamide and carbon fibre to guarantee maximum safety and resistance.

The AR headset features a camera with a 160° viewing angle, a long-lasting battery and a handcam with thermal images, with a module connectable via Wi-Fi, 5G, hotspot, or satellite to link the field operator with up to eleven remote users for support. It is also possible to take advantage of the Kiber 3 web platform, characterised by a simple and intuitive interface to follow operators remotely without the need to install any additional software on the PC.

The all-in-one AR solution is completed by the Kiber 3 Field app, a smartphone app that allows operators to obtain immediate support from their phone, or to use their phone to consult with experts in double quick time. Kiber 3 is easy, efficient and smart wearable technology, a flexible solution to optimise everyday industrial operations that require skills and remote collaboration.