Augmented Reality in Submarine Construction

At thyssenkrupp Marine System we are pioneers when it comes to cutting-edge technology in the submarine con-struction. As the first shipyard worldwide Augmented Reality is used to improve previously time-consuming and error-prone planning and installation processes for complex designs.

Augmented Reality (AR) is an interactive experience of a real-world environment where objects in the real world are enhanced by computer-generated perceptual information. Thanks to the data provided by computer, AR tech-nology provides users with additional information on the currently perceived reality. The insertion of virtual elements or additional information – which can be texts, animations, pictures, videos or graphics – takes place under consideration of three-dimensional references. The primary goal of AR is to present additional information.

For us Augmented Reality represents a revolution in respect of customers, projects, design, manufacturing, service and training. Starting in the training workshop, through shipbuilding, pipe construction and mechanical engineering, electrics, commissioning and on to the digital manual. AR can be used almost limitlessly throughout the entire product lifecycle.

Digitalization as an experience - here and now
At thyssenkrupp Marine Systems so far AR digitalized spatial positioning and quality inspection of components. Through the digitalization, which is based on the submarine's 3D design, we can carry out work with millimetre precision as well as measurements and movements in an AR environment. This allows for shorter and more accurate processes. With finger gestures or conventional presenters, pre-converted virtual coordinates can be placed in the real environment. Alternatively, QR codes can be used for referencing. Virtual components are displayed with the correct position in the subsequent step and include visual and textual feedback following correct positioning. In the object itself, we mark a status on the respective object, which is then, visually and as a texture, fed back into a data-base for further use. Superimposing virtual 3D models on the real environment helps us to do this.

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Virtual components are displayed with the correct position in the subsequent step and include visual and textual feedback following correct positioning

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AR allows our customers to visualize future installations in the still empty pressure hull

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The tools to integrate Augmented Reality into the workplace are state-of-the-art computer glasses.

 

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"Working with AR immediately captivated me. We improved our processes in terms of productivity and quality. It is inspiring to watch this new technology becoming our standard and to have the chance to contrib-ute to becoming a digital shipyard by com-bining state-of-the-art tools with convention-al submarine construction."

Sebastian Krowiors, thyssenkrupp Marine Systems

 

A team of in-house programming specialists
The tools to integrate Augmented Reality into the workplace are state-of-the-art computer glasses. In order to use these tools in a highly specialized field such as submarine construction, an internal team of programmers constantly works on transferring all necessary virtual 3D data into the tool and further improves handling. By having an in-house software development, we make sure to tailor the software according to all requirements.

Pioneers in submarine construction
The fields of application in submarine construction extend over the entire lifecycle of product development. Today, AR allows our customers to visualize future installations in the still empty pressure hull and improves previously time-consuming and error-prone planning as well as installation processes for complex designs. Tomorrow, we strive to remain pioneers of cutting-edge technologies in the field of submarine construction by following our goal to revolutionize processes and thinking outside the box.

Image"In a few years technologies such as AR-Glasses will be normal tools in manufacturing. Then there will be new innovations and we will be again pioneers leading the modern shipbuilding industry. This is our goal: to be always at the cutting-edge of technology."


Stefan Lengowski, Project Manager thyssenkrupp Marine Systems

 
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