Innovative augmented reality system for automotive assembling processes and maintenance: An entrepreneurial case at Tec de Monterrey

Augmented Reality (AR) is a particularly fascinating field due to its innovative technology that allows a person to experience the sensation of living in a computer-generated environment. AR integrates Virtual Reality (VR) into the real-world, enhancing the users experience with the objects surrounding them in real-time. A state-of-the-art technique is presented in this paper, implemented by students in the Business Incubator from Tecnológico de Monterrey with the collaboration of experts and supported by the Research Chair at Campus Monterrey. This paper presents an interactive instructions manual using AR, which will guide the user through the assembly or disassembly of a car engine. The use of augmented reality in manufacturing activities, especially in the automotive industry, increases the productivity by the simulation of parts undergoing their manufacturing process, reducing the need to create physical prototypes. This article describes the way entrepreneurs explore new technologies, using the resources available at the R&D department, to develop an AR system for the assembly of a monobloc engine. A bright future is perceived for life enhancing AR systems. Industrial applications could vary from engine systems, as presented in this paper, to medical or aerospace training programs, imagination is the limit.