Augmented reality (AR) technology has diverse applications in many industries, including the automotive sector. AR applications in the auto industry offer benefits for both consumers and automakers. They can be used to make production easier and more efficient and to create a safer driving experience. Here is a closer look at some of the ways AR could transform the auto industry.
Types of AR Applications in the Auto Industry
AR applications in the automotive industry generally fall into one of two categories: marker-based or sensor-based applications.
Marker-based AR applications (aka image recognition or image-based AR) combine physical and virtual environments by using a camera that recognizes markers, which activates the AR technology. This technology allows users to alter the appearance of their surroundings and enhance what they see using the software.
Sensor-based AR applications create an illusion that the user is in another reality. These applications use visual, audible, and multimodal stimuli to create this illusion. Sensor-based AR applications can be used in the auto industry to create virtual test drives of vehicles before they are released or to test safety features by simulating hazardous driving conditions.
Showroom Applications
Automobile salesclerks can use augmented reality applications in the showroom to show potential customers the features and functions of any vehicle they’re interested in. AR applications can be used to visualize various types of information, including the car’s interior and exterior parts, weight, performance, and financing options. The showroom applications of AR are an example of marker-based AR.
Dealerships often lack the full spectrum of colors, features, and options for each make and model that they sell. Shoppers can use AR applications to visualize any combination of options that they want, with virtual previews of what the vehicle would look like. This improves the customer experience and makes it easier for merchants to help their clients find what they’re looking for.
Interactive Car Manuals and Presentation Guides
Thumbing through a thick car manual when a problem arises may soon become a thing of the past, thanks to augmented reality. AR-powered car manuals and guides give car owners instant and easy access to vital information. These interactive AR car manuals can provide instructions and video tutorials that help drivers address issues and perform necessary maintenance.
Automakers and sellers can also make use of AR in their sales and marketing efforts. Sales teams can use AR features to show off vehicle features and provide customers with an interactive experience. AR can be used in campaigns to give users the opportunity to operate the vehicle in a virtual environment. AR presentation guides can also be used in the designing and planning stages when the vehicle is under production.
Using AR to Improve Safety Features
Augmented reality safety features were one of the first AR technologies introduced to the auto industry and are steadily becoming popular among major automakers. The currently available features primarily aid in navigation and notify drivers of potential roadway dangers to prevent accidents.
The BMW i4 is one example of how AR can make navigation safer for drivers. These models now use front-view cameras to automatically send a live video of the street to the vehicle’s dashboard infotainment screen, with interactive arrows over the real-world footage. These arrows notify the driver where to turn and when to switch lanes.
Heads-up Displays (HUD) are another application of AR for safety purposes. These displays can appear over windshields, which allows drivers to keep their eyes on the road. Tech company Apostera is currently producing a HUD product for the Audi Q4 e-tron.
Manufacturing Applications
Automakers have begun utilizing augmented reality applications to make the manufacturing process more efficient and accurate. For example, some auto plant workers are now provided with instructions and important data on AR glasses displays. This allows staff to quickly review documentation before returning to the manufacturing process.
These wearable AR technologies can notify workers of the parts and tools they need and then provide detailed audio-visual steps with digital instructions superimposed over the equipment. This makes assembly line work safer, more efficient, and more comfortable for workers and speeds up the manufacturing process. In addition, these technologies can reduce human error by as much as 96 percent.
Vehicle Design and Prototyping
Automakers are also beginning to use AR technologies when designing and prototyping new vehicles. AR is often used together with virtual reality (VR) during this process. The automaker can use VR to see the vehicle from the point of view of people with different heights and use this information to make design adjustments. Designers can look at design options and adjust based on overlaid AR images on real car models. AR can also be used by team members to make collaboration easier during the design process. All members can see the work of their colleagues and make necessary changes based on AR information.