Audi’s team relies on augmented reality while planning complex logistic processes. The 3D holograms displayed in the real environment of a production hall help to assess future situations and reduce costs related to complicated production of container or device prototypes.

The system called LayAR (layout, augmented reality) uses intelligent glasses HoloLens 2 by Microsoft and the software works with existing CAD data. “In Audi Production, we use digital technologies systematically, they provide us with reality projection,” says Peter Kössler, Member of the Board and Management. Last year, augmented reality became a permanent part of local logisticians’ “tool set”.

Before the implementation of LayAR, they had to develop and use their own prototypes of containers, regals and more objects that are complicatedly attached to the floor and for dealing with them, they had to use significant imagination. With LayAR, it is possible to visualize various objects in a digital twin as a 3D hologram and project them right in the place they’re needed in. “That helps to identify problems in time and quickly come up with a solution,” says Project Manager Tobias Brigl. 

The same images are displayed simultaneously on more devices with augmented reality through synchronization. If the user touches the object, they can move, rotate or replace it. All with a simple hand movement. All the participants can see the changes in real time. 

Sharing the same reality simplifies discussion and cooperation, regardless of the place that the users connect to the device from. People from various enterprises and countries can be “in the same place” at the same time. In the future, even experts working from home could be included in this kind of planning through video conferences.

Work is going to get more effective and quick thanks to LayAR. For example, specialists from the body shop in Ingolstadt plan a technology for an innovative autonomous transport system, long before the first automated vehicles will be delivered. LayAR is going to be applied for initiation of electric cars production in the main Audi plant.

The premium car manufacturer uses augmented reality in different areas also. For many years, Audi Product Communications has organized “virtual exhibitions” for the purpose of technical processes and complex technologies visualization. Holographic animations are based on CAD design data and are presented in 3D using data devices HoloLens during press events. Even in this case, devices of the second generation are used.