The success of the packaging industry depends on the smooth functioning of machines and equipment. Augmented Reality (AR) is a great asset to this field, offering numerous benefits that help keep operations running smoothly. From improving safety to boosting customer service, AR is a game-changer for the packaging industry.
How AR helps the packaging industry
In today’s fast-paced world, businesses need a competitive advantage and to continually evolve to keep up with the competition. The packaging industry, in particular, has seen significant changes over the years, with the advent of new technologies like Augmented Reality (AR). AR helps the packaging industry in many ways, making its operations more efficient and cost-effective.
The augmented reality product packaging process can be optimized to ensure that the packaging is done efficiently, reducing waste and speeding up production.
Increased efficiency in the manufacturing process
Efficiency is key to staying ahead in any industry. This is especially true in manufacturing, where every moment of productivity directly impacts the bottom line. Let’s talk about how efficiency in manufacturing can be further improved with AR.
Reduced downtime
The utilization of AR technology in the manufacturing industry leads to reduced downtime, which translates to increased productivity and profitability. With AR capabilities, employees can access real-time data on machines, processes, and products, providing immediate insights and repairs when necessary. The ability to troubleshoot problems quickly and efficiently through AR tech support means less time lost to downtime and more time dedicated to manufacturing. AR also allows for the creation and use of digital work instructions, helping employees stay on task and efficient, increasing their productivity.
Increased accuracy
Inaccuracies in manufacturing can cause product defects and recalls, resulting in reputational damage and financial loss. AR technology enhances the accuracy of the manufacturing process in the product packaging industry through visual overlays and step-by-step instructions on assembly, ensuring products are made to exact specifications. The use of AR technology in the manufacturing of complex products and equipment drastically decreases the likelihood of human error, leading to improved quality and safety standards.
Improved training and performance
The use of AR technology helps employees gain a deeper understanding of the manufacturing process and the equipment they operate. With the use of AR wearables like smartglasses, employees receive instructions while being hands-free to do the task at hand, allowing them to better understand and retain information. As a result, this leads to fewer errors, improved safety, and increased productivity.
Improved visualization of packaging solutions
With the help of modern technology, companies are now able to offer a more comprehensive product presentation and a personalized augmented reality experience to their customers. The potential of AR technology and even virtual reality to provide better visualization of packaging solutions can help customers and increase sales. Here are 3 ways in which AR technology can be used to enhance the customer experience.
Eliminating physical prototypes
Packaging design begins with prototypes, which can be time-consuming and require considerable resources to produce. With AR technology, designers can make changes to the package without the need for physical prototypes, which cuts down on development time and costs. Designers can create detailed 3D images of their AR packaging solutions that customers can rotate and zoom in on, and even test out in a real-world situation.
Convenience
Consumers are more likely to buy products that are easily available, and AR technology bridges the gap between physical stores and online shopping. Companies can integrate AR technology into their mobile applications, allowing customers to visualize products accurately, even when shopping from home.
Enhanced quality control
No matter the industry you’re in, quality control is essential to ensuring the success of your business. As technology continues to advance, the packaging industry is starting to leverage the power of augmented reality (AR) to take its quality control processes to the next level. Here are 3 ways AR can help you maintain high-quality standards for your packaging.
Reducing errors
One of the most significant benefits of AR is the ability to reduce errors in the quality control process. Many companies use AR technology to produce 3D visualizations of their product, allowing them to analyze it from every angle and identify any defects or issues before it reaches the customer. By catching potential errors early on, they can save their business from unnecessary expenses and maintain the quality of their products.
Companies can also reduce their error rates through assisted reality work instructions. By giving employees guided step-by-step instructions in their line of sight via smartglasses, the chance of human error is greatly reduced. These customized instructions can also integrate quality control steps like countbacks and submitting a photo that guarantee that no mistakes are being made.
Improved training
Another way AR enhances quality control is through improved training. AR technology provides a unique learn-by-doing approach, making it easier for employees to learn and retain new information like how to operate new equipment or assemble products correctly. This results in fewer errors and improved overall quality, helping you maintain a high level of customer satisfaction.
Cost reduction
Finally, AR also helps businesses save money in the long run. By reducing downtime, identifying errors early on, and providing efficient solutions, businesses can save on expenses related to repairs, maintenance, and even staffing. This results in a significant reduction in operating costs, boosting the overall profitability of your business.
Expedited troubleshooting
Traditional technical support can be time-consuming, expensive, and often frustrating for both support agents and customers. That’s where AR technical support comes in. Here are 3 benefits of expedited troubleshooting.
AR enhances accuracy and speed in troubleshooting
AR tech support eliminates the need for lengthy explanations and diagnoses by allowing support agents to get a clear view of the problem in real-time. AR tech support softwares, like NewForge Knowledge Place have been developed with the industry in mind. Knowledge Place provides a platform for technicians to share knowledge, search for experts on a specific piece of equipment using AR, and work with Expert AI to create work instructions.
Remote experts can clearly indicate what the problem is with specialized features like adding arrows or circles or sharing schematics all in someone’s line of sight. The technician on the other end of the call gets accurate and clear answers to their troubleshooting questions.
AR minimizes the need for specialized knowledge on site
Often, technical problems require specialized knowledge to identify the root cause and find the right solution. However, with AR, maintenance technicians can receive assistance from remote experts to diagnose and solve complex issues that may require specialized knowledge. The AR technology allows technicians to virtually connect with remote experts who can guide them through the troubleshooting process, minimizing the need for additional support staff and training.
AR reduces downtime
Tech support can help reduce downtime by providing quick and efficient AR solutions to technical problems. Receiving technical support using AR is done by sending a link to an expert or having available experts to search though to make an appointment. The technician can then receive over-the-shoulder assistance by the expert who can augment the technician’s line of view with annotations, circle or draw arrows to the problem, share schematics and walk the technician trough the problem.
By leveraging AR technology, businesses can detect and resolve issues quickly, resulting in minimal disruption to their operations. In addition, AR technology can help businesses provide better customer service by offering a more interactive and engaging experience, helping to improve customer satisfaction.
Improved collaboration
The packaging industry has greatly evolved over the years, from traditional paper and carton packaging to high-end packages with advanced designs. The increasing demand for custom packaging has made collaboration even more important in the packaging industry. Yet, with improvements in technology, packaging companies have found ways to streamline their operations and improve collaboration. Let’s look at 4 ways improved collaboration helps the packaging industry.
Improved communication
Communication is the underlying foundation of collaboration, and the packaging industry is no exception. However, traditional communication methods often fall short in terms of conveying complex packaging designs. With AR, team members can easily share packaging designs, highlight specific parts, and make changes in real time, without being physically present in the same location. This level of communication not only saves time but also streamlines the packaging process, thus improving collaboration among team members.
Enhanced visualization
AR technology allows team members to view packaging designs in 3D and in real-time. Traditional 2D diagrams can be difficult to understand, especially for non-technical team members. With AR technology, all team members, irrespective of their technical expertise, can visualize packaging designs clearly and easily. This makes it easier for team members to collaborate effectively, come up with new ideas and input, and make necessary changes on the go.
Improved efficiency
AR technology can improve efficiency by enabling team members to collaborate closely and quickly. With traditional methods, team members often had to set aside hours to discuss, revise, and make changes to packaging designs. AR technology eliminates the need for time-consuming meetings and long email chains, allowing team members to collaborate remotely and seamlessly.
AR provides an array of beneficial services to the packaging industry that can go a long way in improving operational efficiency and increasing customer satisfaction. Utilizing these technologies for troubleshooting and guidance purposes, as well as providing product information and helping boost sales, can help companies stay ahead of the competition. From improving collaboration and communication to enhancing visualization and efficiency, AR is changing the way businesses operate in the packaging industry.