AR is the Future of Technical Documentation: Juergen Lumera Explains Why Bosch Automotive is Getting into Augmented Reality

Press Release: Augmented Reality applications specifically provide computer-assisted, additional information. For example, three-dimensional objects, explanatory texts, pictures or videos are overlaid onto the real environment on the user’s tablet or smart phone as soon as the user focuses the device’s camera on an area for which Augmented Reality information is available. A good example for this augmented presentation of reality is shown during the broadcast of a football game when the offside line is blended in as if it were part of the field.

Use of Augmented Reality Facilitates Tasks in Workshops

Bosch will use this modern technology in the future to support vehicle workshops in repair and maintenance works. Augmented Reality solutions provide the mechatronics technician with three-dimensional work instructions, required tools or even training videos. As soon as the camera of the tablet scans a motor component, the contextual information is superimposed onto the physical object – exactly where it is needed. The mechatronics technician can control superimposed objects via the touchscreen and call up further information. The time-consuming consultation of service manuals is thus omitted. Also, components that are hidden behind panelings or the cabling below the dashboard can be depicted to scale with Augmented Reality. This clarifies the next work steps and unnecessary assembly works are omitted. Thus, Augmented Reality facilitates the repair process, improves the quality of the work results and minimizes the effort. Besides, the new technology allows even less experienced employees to carry out repair works that are more complex.

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Broad range of application for Augmented Reality

Bosch uses a modern software platform that creates the applications using construction drawings, 3D data and animations for the creation of complex Augmented Reality solutions. Bosch sees the application possibilities of Augmented Reality in the support of diagnostic, maintenance and repair tasks, as well as in technical training and service information.

The Automotive Aftermarket division (AA) provides aftermarket and repair shops worldwide with a complete range of diagnostic and repair shop equipment and a wide range of spare parts – from new and exchange parts to repair solutions – for passenger cars and commercial vehicles. Its product portfolio includes products made as Bosch original equipment, as well as aftermarket products and services developed and manufactured in-house. More than 18,000 associates in 150 countries, as well as a global logistics network, ensure that some 650,000 different spare parts reach customers quickly and on time. In its “Automotive Service Solutions” operations, AA supplies testing and repair-shop technology, diagnostic software, service training, and information services. In addition, the division is responsible for the “Bosch Service” repair-shop franchise, one of the world’s largest independent chains of repair shops, with some 16,500 franchises. In addition, AA is responsible for more than 800 “AutoCrew” partners.

Additional information can be accessed at www.bosch-automotive.com.

The Bosch Group is a leading global supplier of technology and services. In 2013, its roughly 281,000 associates generated sales of 46.1 billion euros. (NB: Due to a change in accounting policies, the 2013 figures can only be compared to a limited extent with the 2012 figures). Its operations are divided into four business sectors: Automotive Technology, Industrial Technology, Consumer Goods, and Energy and Building Technology. The Bosch Group comprises Robert Bosch GmbH and its roughly 360 subsidiaries and regional companies in some 50 countries. If its sales and service partners are included, Bosch is represented in roughly 150 countries. This worldwide development, manufacturing, and sales network is the foundation for further growth. In 2013, the Bosch Group invested some 4.5 billion euros in research and development and applied for some 5,000 patents. This is an average of 20 patents per day. The Bosch Group’s products and services are designed to fascinate, and to improve quality of life by providing solutions which are both innovative and beneficial. In this way, the company offers technology worldwide that is “Invented for life.”

Further information is available online at www.bosch.com, www.bosch-press.com and twitter.com/BoschPresse.

 

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