AR Overlay for Machine Learning Contradictions

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing methods for learning new machine functionalities are inefficient, as they require significant time for workers to adapt to new technologies and workflows, and lack effective tools for bridging skill gaps between old and new equipment.

Innovation Solution

The use of augmented reality (AR) devices that overlay digital representations of old machine processes onto new machines, allowing workers to map their knowledge and skills from previous experiences to new technologies, thereby reducing learning time and enhancing training efficiency.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Loss of time

If traditional methods are used to train workers on new machine functionalities, then workers can learn the new technology, but the learning time is significant and training efficiency is low

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelearning timeVSAvoidtraining efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of timeVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent creates a digital twin copy of the physical machine that replicates its functionality and behavior. This virtual copy allows workers to interact with and learn the machine's operations without physical risk, enabling parallel learning processes that reduce training time while maintaining comprehensive skill development

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

Solution Approach 2:

The digital twin serves as an intermediary between the physical machine and the worker. It provides a safe, controllable virtual environment where workers can practice operations, receive real-time guidance, and visualize workflows before operating the actual machine, thereby reducing the time required to become proficient

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Adaptability or versatility

If workers are trained on new technologies without digital representations, then training can be simplified, but workers cannot effectively map their knowledge from old machines to new ones

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveknowledge transfer capabilityVSAvoidtraining system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

By creating a digital twin that mirrors the physical machine's structure, controls, and operational workflows, the system enables workers to map their existing knowledge from old machines to new ones. The digital representation preserves functional equivalencies while highlighting differences, facilitating adaptive transfer of skills without requiring complete relearning

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

Solution Approach 2:

The digital twin platform serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides training simulations, knowledge mapping tools, workflow visualizations, and performance tracking. This multi-functionality consolidates what would otherwise require multiple separate training systems into a single unified platform, managing complexity while enhancing adaptability

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Ease of operation

If workers manually learn new machine operations without visual guidance, then training procedures remain simple, but workers struggle to visualize new equipment and perform tasks efficiently

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetask performance guidanceVSAvoidtraining cycle duration
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The digital twin acts as a visual intermediary that overlays virtual representations of machine components, workflows, and operational steps onto the physical machine or in a virtual environment. This visual guidance system helps workers understand complex operations at a glance, reducing the time needed to master new equipment while maintaining operational simplicity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The system adds a visual dimension to the training experience by rendering three-dimensional representations of machine operations that can be viewed from multiple angles. This spatial visualization allows workers to comprehend complex workflows and spatial relationships more quickly than through manual instruction, accelerating the learning cycle without complicating the training procedure

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

Data Source

PatentUS20240355061A1Augmented reality based comparative learning of machine functionality
Publication Date: 2024.10.24 INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS MACHINE CORPORATION
  • US20240355061A1 patent drawing
  • US20240355061A1 patent drawing
  • US20240355061A1 patent drawing

AI summary

Embodiments are related to augmented reality based comparative learning of machine functionality. An augmented reality (AR) device identifies that a new action is to be performed on a first machine, the first machine being viewable by a user using the AR device, where the new action is configured to be performed by the user using at least one component of the first machine. The AR device obtains a digital representation of a second machine, the digital representation being associated with an equivalent action to the new action. A first outcome of the new action and a second outcome of the equivalent action are determined to be equivalent. The AR device displays the equivalent action of the digital representation of the second machine overlaid on the first machine such that the equivalent action of the digital representation is viewable to the user.