AR data visualisation and error analysis in your pocket
SICK UK has officially launched its SICK Augmented Reality Assistant (SARA), providing limitless data visibility and information via augmented reality at the exact location it is needed through handheld digital devices.
In June, SICK UK unveiled its SICK Augmented Reality Assistant (SARA) at Smart Factory Expo 2024. The intuitive augmented reality app provides data visualisation and error analysis by merging machine, sensor and diagnostic information with the real environment using technology most people carry in their pocket.
With the unique SARA app, users can take data from any source and map it into the SARA augmented reality (AR) engine for review on a handheld device, such as a mobile phone, without requiring costly wearable devices or fixed HMIs. SARA provides visibility of information that can’t be seen with the naked eye, taking users directly to the site of the problem that needs maintenance.
Created in response to customer demand, SARA provides access to data and faults at the location where they arise, to accelerate commissioning, diagnostic, condition monitoring and maintenance activities. The engine empowers shop floor staff to diagnose faults and monitor the performance of machines to get the best results.
Tackling skills shortages
UK manufacturers and OEMs are experiencing significant skills gaps, and the problem is showing no signs of abating. According to the WorldSkills UK Manufacturing Excellence report, published last year, more than half (55%) of manufacturers questioned were experiencing shortages in advanced manufacturing skills and 61% in traditional manufacturing skills. Similarly, the Manufacturing Commission warned in October 2023 that labour shortages and skills gaps in the sector cost between £7.7 billion and £8.3 billion a year in lost economic output.
With the increasing use of automation, monitoring and maintaining machinery and preventing costly stoppages is more important than ever. However, the skills and recruitment problems dogging the industry are particularly acute when it comes to qualified operators and maintenance technicians. As companies require more from employees on the ground, SARA offers the ideal opportunity to upskill existing staff and get new hires up to speed fast, empowering them to carry out more tasks, such as machine monitoring and basic maintenance. OEMs and equipment providers also report increasing numbers of callouts as end-users struggle to hire the maintenance staff and operators they require.
SARA was in action on the SICK stand at Smart Factory Expo 2024 as part of demonstrations of SICK products working harmoniously to deliver digital manufacturing solutions. These included one demo on the use of various SICK devices (load detection, line guidance, height measurement, safety laser scanners and barcode readers) to enhance the safety and performance of AGVs, and another showcasing the vertical integration of SICK smart encoders and sensors.
With such a wide range of potential applications, SICK has created various licences (including LiDAR and robotics variants, in addition to the base licence) that unlock specific features of SARA to allow users to customise solutions for specific use cases. Plans are underway to develop further specialist licences in the future.
Charlie Walker, SICK UK Data Solutions Consultant, said: “SARA is a unique application, blending data visualisation with the real environment and delivering it via the technology you have in your pocket. Using SARA, teams can reduce the risk of outages, increase machine availability, and boost productivity by ensuring that equipment performs optimally.
“SICK’s SARA AR app can bring employees up to speed with equipment quickly, to regularly monitor machines and to enhance safety. Codes can be scanned and linked to relevant documentation to provide access to critical information where and when needed. The possibilities and opportunities SARA can bring are vast and we are excited to officially launch it to the UK market to see how companies unleash its potential.”
