Abstract:

In recent years, Augmented Reality (AR) technologies have gained attention and adoption in various fields of industry and education, including engineering education. This paper evaluates and scrutinizes the most advanced AR technologies available today, with a specific focus on the Vuzix Blade and Microsoft HoloLens. The study delves into the integration of Vuzix Blade and Microsoft HoloLens AR technologies within the undergraduate Manufacturing Engineering curriculum. Additionally, the review conducts an in-depth examination of the Microsoft HoloLens. To accomplish this, a well-defined and comprehensive hands-on project is undertaken where students employ AR work instructions using the Microsoft HoloLens to assemble Technic Lego, emulating a real-world manufacturing assembly operation.

Improved operator training and standard work is a common real-world problem in any manufacturing organisation and one where the potential benefits of AR technology over traditional paper-based work instructions can be quickly realised. This approach gives students an opportunity to take an active role in creatively exploring possible applications of AR, initially in a narrow context as a means of introducing them to the technology. This introduction will ultimately open the door to explore the full capabilities of the technology to solve any number of other real-world engineering problems like remote technical support and problem solving, production meetings, displaying production performance metrics, communicating real-time quality alerts, production quality controls, error-proofing etc. Tech-savvy undergraduates are excited about exploring the full potential of new technologies and integrating AR into a first-year engineering module has the added benefit of improving student retention by tapping into the student’s enthusiasm to explore and become subject-matter-experts in the latest technologies.

Keywords:

Augmented Reality, Lego, Experiential Learning, Student Engagement.