Augmented Reality, sometimes mistaken for virtual reality, has become a popular technology in many industries including manufacturing, automobile, energy and pharmaceutical. AR is mentioned alongside artificial intelligence, virtual reality (VR), IoT (Internet of Things) as one of most rapidly-developing technologies.
AR smart glasses are the best way to experience augmented realities. There are many choices available in terms of design, performance, compatible accessories, cost, and naturally price. Because different companies have different processes, the multitude of options available allows them to respond to market needs. What are the key features for your business?
What smartphone or tablet is enough?
Before we get into the core components of AR glasses, let’s ask one question: Why can’t we just use mobile devices that are widely available? Smartphones and tablets can both support augmented reality platforms and applications. These devices are a good starting point to see if augmented Reality is what your company needs.
AR glasses will prove to be vital if you want to take full advantage of the potential of AR. Mobile devices can provide some augmented reality functionality, but they don’t provide immersive experience. Also, they cannot be operated without a hand, which is important for workers in the field. It is also more likely that the most common tablets and phones will be damaged, e.g. dropping on the ground. AR glasses may be damaged if dropped on concrete.
5 things you should consider before investing in an AR device
The factors that influence which model you choose depend on your work environment and what the scope of work is. Unfortunately, there isn’t one size fits all solution. Some glasses can be used for longer periods than others. However, some models are more durable than others. What are the key factors to consider before you make your final decision?
1. Where will AR glasses go?
The majority of models on the market are not suitable for extreme environments. For outdoor usage, you need to consider AR glasses that are industrial-grade. Only a handful of models meet the highest standards and are water- and dust resistant. RealWear is a family of devices, and especially the RealWear Navigator500 and HMT-1Z1 models, which have no ignition hazards in hazardous zones per Class 1 Division 1 & ATEX/IECEx Zone 1 certificates. It can also be used in the presence explosive gases in a atmosphere, such mines.
2. What is it used for?
Do you plan to use the glasses in training, remote support, remote service, or other purposes? HoloLens 2 provides exceptional image quality that allows for the most minute details to be visible. It provides an unparalleled experience with 3D-holograms and interactions between real and virtual. The device is great for training and working in moderately harsh industrial environments.
Vuzix smart glasses M300 can be used in a limited amount of places. However, they are more suitable for indoor usage in less demanding settings and still great for training.
3. For how long?
If the device is to be used for 8 hours, it must be connected. It can be used intermittently, or for remote training and support. This may be a vital feature. Because of this, devices differ in how long they can work without interruption. RealWear Navigator has a battery life of 6-8 hours; RealWear HMT-1 is able to last up to 10 hours; and VuzixM300 Smart Glasses can last up 12 hours. Hot-swappable batteries (found in RealWear Navigator 500 & Vuzix M300), allow you to change the battery without interrupting your work. AR glasses’ weight is another factor. The more heavy AR glasses are, the more difficult they will be wear for many hours. RealWear MMT-1Z1 weighs 430 g. RealWear Navigator 272 g. Epson MOVERIO BT-40 96 g.
4. Are there any other special needs?
What’s more, industrial-grade AR sunglasses do not cause interference with safety equipment like hard hats or gloves. But, users might have other requirements, such as left-and-right eye compatibility (RealWear Navigator 500), Vuzix V4000 and Vuzix V300 Smart Glasses), the possibility to wear corrective sunglasses (Magic Leap 1; Epson MODERIO BT-40), LED light that can strengthen your vision (found at RealWear), language support (e.g. English – Australian, British, and American supported by the newest RealWear sunglasses. For employees who plan to log every action they take for analysis or further use, it is worth looking into internal memory.
5. How much will I pay?
Last but certainly not least, consider your budget when choosing AR devices. Do you need to service a lot of employees at once to help them every day or will a few pairs of AR glasses suffice? The cost of these most popular and trusted devices is $579 (Epson BT-40), to $5250 with RealWear HMT-1Z1. The difference can be significant, especially when it comes to equipping the entire team.
As you can see from the above, there are many factors to consider before you purchase an AR device. View the exhaustive Comparison of the above-mentioned gadgets , complete with all specifications.