AR Machine Tool Interface for In-View Configuration Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Operators of machine tools, such as circular saws, face challenges in efficiently managing settings and configurations due to the need to frequently switch between viewing a control screen and the machine, leading to increased errors, machining waste, and safety risks due to distraction.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a method that uses augmented reality to display information directly on the machine tool's environment, allowing operators to view configuration parameters and interact with virtual commands overlaid on real images, reducing the need for constant screen monitoring and enhancing ergonomic operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If information is displayed on a control screen, then information is provided to the operator, but the operator must frequently switch between the screen and the machine, increasing errors and safety risks
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions the information display from a two-dimensional screen to a three-dimensional augmented reality overlay that appears to float in the operator's field of view. This dimensional change allows information to be viewed without shifting gaze to a separate screen, eliminating the need for frequent attention switching and reducing safety risks while maintaining complete information access.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an augmented reality display system as an intermediary between the control screen and the operator's direct view of the machine. This intermediary technology projects information into the operator's visual field, serving as a bridge that allows simultaneous viewing of both machine operations and configuration information without requiring the operator to physically move between viewing locations.
2Loss of information
If information is displayed on a control screen, then configuration parameters are visible, but the operator experiences distraction and increased error rates
Solution Approach 1:
By projecting configuration information into the three-dimensional space above the machine rather than confining it to a two-dimensional screen, the system allows operators to view all necessary parameters while maintaining their focus on the machine operations. This spatial repositioning of information eliminates the cognitive load of switching attention between separate viewing locations.
3Device complexity
If a concentrated interface area is used, then the control system is compact, but the operator must move gaze continuously between screen and machine
Solution Approach 1:
The patent eliminates the need for a physically concentrated interface area by projecting the interface into the operator's field of view in three-dimensional space. This allows the interface to be virtually positioned wherever needed in the operator's visual field, removing the time loss associated with physically moving gaze between a concentrated screen location and the machine.
4Loss of information
If traditional display methods are used, then information is provided, but non-expert operators struggle to manage settings efficiently
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by positioning specific configuration information and controls in proximity to their corresponding physical machine components in the augmented reality display. This spatial correspondence allows operators to understand the relationship between controls and machine parts intuitively, reducing the expertise required to manage settings efficiently.
Data Source
Figure 1
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AI summary
The present invention concerns a Method for displaying information relating to the configuration of a machine tool (1), comprising the steps of: A. reading from a memory unit of said machine tool (1) said information; B. sending said information to a display (5) for augmented reality; and C. overlapping on a real image of the environment surrounding said machine tool (1) and/or said machine tool (1), said information, through said display (5) for augmented reality. The present invention also concerns a working plant for machining a piece.