Augmented reality is one of the newest and most exciting examples of a digital and real-world blend. It allows your customers and employees to experience the world with all its physical objects with added interactive content layers. The computer-generated components deepen the view and provide additional information, so AR creates an immersive experience for the user.
Augmented reality in mining transforms how companies conduct their operations, allowing for AR training, remote support of experts, and general digitalization.
Here are some ways that augmented reality is making a significant impact in the mining industry.
Improved worker safety
Operators must ensure workers’ health and safety, especially those working in hazardous environments, exposed to noise and high temperatures. With augmented reality, they don’t need to carry paper manuals; they can call experts or go through checklists. Also, they can be trained to perform their tasks in a natural work environment and use actual equipment sooner. In addition, all training information can be displayed directly on the AR glasses so employees can learn how to operate machinery with their hands free, which is far less risky than learning from the manuals only and having a limited time with a trainer.
Machinery maintenance
Using Augmented Reality in mining, staff can perform maintenance and service procedures with the help of remote experts. Also, the technology can help them understand the state of the equipment and predict failures before they occur (predictive maintenance). High-resolution digital twins, 3D models, and holograms will also help.
Smarter recruiting strategy
AR plays an increasingly important role in the mining recruitment process. Candidates can be immersed in the experience of working at a particular company, so they see if they are a good fit. On the other hand, interviewers can see how candidates behave in their new role and surroundings – and if they have the skills, they claim to have.
Increased employee engagement
Augmented reality-based solutions can also help boost employee engagement. For example, one mining company implemented AR for its candidates to let them explore the life of a miner and experience what it’s like to work in the mining industry. As future staff members could see everything the miner saw, they could also feel like they were a miner. In another example, a mining company used AR in an OHS training course. Instead of sitting in front of the computer, staff members were provided with a fully immersive experience. It has boosted employee engagement and increased their knowledge of safety.
Scalability
AR significantly impacts the mining industry because it allows companies to scale their operations quickly. It applies to training, support, and workflow processes. This way, you can satisfy a growing demand for your products and services without devoting considerable time and money. One of the solutions that will help you scale your mining business is a Nsflow platform.
Key takeaways
With the implementation of augmented reality in mining, operators can vastly improve worker safety and reduce maintenance costs, as well as automate and improve production processes(Like: AI process optimization). Candidates for the job can fully experience working at a particular company and see themselves in the new role and surroundings. This can help with recruiting, providing more information on the candidate’s behavior. With the implementation of AR, companies can boost employee engagement and business scalability.
