AR-Guided Operator Assistance & Training
The Challenge
Skilled machine operators typically require months or even years of hands-on experience to reach full proficiency. During that learning period, mistakes are more frequent, production quality may suffer, and experienced colleagues spend considerable time supervising and correcting new staff. When senior operators retire or leave, their practical know-how often leaves with them. Traditional training methods such as paper manuals, classroom sessions, or shadowing are time-consuming and difficult to standardise across shifts and locations.
What This Demonstrator Does
A Microsoft HoloLens 2 headset is worn by the operator during a task. The headset projects holographic, step-by-step instructions directly into the operator’s field of view, overlaid on the real work environment. Each step can include text, images, 3D models, or short video clips, guiding the operator through assembly, setup, maintenance, or quality checks without the need to consult a separate screen or manual. Progress is tracked automatically, and the operator can navigate forwards, backwards, or request additional detail using voice commands or hand gestures. The same content can be reused for training new employees, ensuring a consistent and repeatable learning experience.
What You Gain
- Faster onboarding: new hires reach operational proficiency in significantly less time
- Fewer errors through step-by-step visual guidance during complex or unfamiliar tasks
- Hands-on learning from day one, with trainees working on real equipment instead of studying manuals
Who Is This For?
This demonstrator is relevant for manufacturing SMEs that face long onboarding times for new operators, frequent changeovers requiring different procedures, or a dependence on a small number of highly experienced staff. It is equally suited for dedicated training facilities looking to offer modern, hands-on learning programmes.
Estimated Cost to Implement
Total estimated budget: €4,000–€7,000 for a single-headset setup including content authoring for one workflow. Additional headsets and workflows can be added incrementally.
Pilot Program
What does a pilot look like for this demonstrator?
A HoloLens 2 headset is provided and configured for one selected workstation or training scenario at the SME’s facility. One AR-guided workflow is authored in collaboration with the company’s process experts. The pilot runs for a defined period (typically four to six weeks) during which operators and trainees use the headset in daily work.
Services provided during the pilot:
- On-site setup and calibration of the HoloLens 2 headset for the selected work environment
- Authoring of one AR-guided workflow tailored to an existing process or training scenario
- Hands-on introduction session for operators and trainers (approximately two hours)
- Remote technical support during the pilot period
- End-of-pilot evaluation with findings, user feedback, and recommendations for broader rollout
What you need to have / provide:
- A defined process or workstation where step-by-step guidance is needed
- Wi-Fi connectivity in the area where the headset will be used
- A designated contact person available during setup and for follow-up questions
- Access to existing work instructions or process documentation for content authoring
Contact
Partner organization: CRM
Contact person: Jens Van Humbeeck
Email: jens.vanhumbeeck@crmgroup.be