Augmented Reality for Facility Management
Introduction
Smart Manufacturing, or intelligent manufacturing, is a broad category that employs computer-integrated manufacturing, high levels of adaptability and rapid design changes, digital information technology, and more flexible training of the technical workforce.[1] Other objectives include sometimes rapid changes in production levels based on demand, supply chain optimization, production and recyclability.[2][3] In this concept, as smart manufacturing has interoperable systems, multi-scale dynamic modeling and simulation, intelligent automation, strong cybersecurity and networked sensors.
The broad definition of smart manufacturing encompasses many different technologies. Some of the key technologies in the smart manufacturing movement include big data processing capabilities, industrial connectivity devices and services, and advanced robotics[4].
Big data processing
Smart manufacturing uses big data analytics to refine complicated processes and manage supply chains.[6] Big data analytics refers to a method of gathering and understanding large sets of data in terms of what is known as the three V's, velocity, variety and volume. Speed informs the frequency of data acquisition, which can be concurrent with the application of previous data. Variety describes the different types of data that can be handled. Volume represents the amount of data.[7] Big data analytics allows a company to use smart manufacturing to predict demand and the need for design changes rather than reacting to orders placed.[1].
Some products have built-in sensors, which produce large amounts of data that can be used to understand consumer behavior and improve future versions of the product.[8][9][10].
Advanced robotics
Advanced Industrial Robots, also known as intelligent machines, operate autonomously and operate directly with manufacturing systems. In some advanced manufacturing contexts, they can work with humans for co-assembly tasks.[11] By evaluating sensory information and distinguishing between different product configurations, these machines are capable of solving problems and making decisions independent of people. These robots are capable of completing work beyond what they were initially programmed to do and have artificial intelligence that allows them to learn from experience.[4] These machines have the flexibility to be reconfigured and re-powered. This gives them the ability to respond quickly to design changes and innovation, which is a competitive advantage over more traditional manufacturing processes.[12] One area of concern surrounding advanced robotics is the safety and well-being of human workers who interact with robotic systems. Traditionally, measures have been taken to segregate robots from human labor, but advances in the cognitive ability of robots have opened opportunities, such as cobots, for robots to work collaboratively with people.[13].