Digital Assistance Systems

Immerse yourself in the world of AM with immersive technologies

Additive Manufacturing processes are considered a key technology for future production systems, which is why it must be made easier for a broad range of new users to get started. Digital assistance systems can be used as a human-machine interface to remove barriers to the efficient and safe use of these technologies. At Fraunhofer IAPT we provide individual advice on possible application scenarios, develop concepts for human-centered applications and develop functional prototypes along the entire AM process chain.

Digital assistance systems are information technology tools for the cognitive support of human work. Through human-centered design according to usability and UX principles, end users are integrated into the development process in order to develop practical solutions. In particular, the use of immersive technologies such as augmented reality (AR) / virtual reality (VR) as a user interface enables interaction in a natural way. Users are provided with context-sensitive information directly in their field of vision.

The use of such systems has already been successfully demonstrated using various AM processes and end devices. The main advantages here are the guarantee of occupational safety, the increase in learning productivity and the standardization of manual actions in order to significantly reduce errors during execution.

Support setup processes with AR

Multi-object tracking is used to support technical personnel in setting up and positioning a construction job in the robot-based DED process.

Digital support with AR on the AM-Shopfloor

Digital step-by-step instructions for all machine-related manual set-up and maintenance processes in the typical L-PBF process chain guide users safely through the operation of the systems. AR functionalities including object tracking, marker tracking and animations with occlusion geometries help with orientation and facilitate implementation.

Developing empowering effects through modern human-machine interfaces

Digital assistance systems are essential components of a resilient process chain and enable decentralized production using AM. By adding a digital control and workflow management system, the MobiMed project enabled untrained personnel to perform all the necessary tasks for the production of medical supplies and protective equipment.