Is Augmented Reality Auto Repair in Our Future?

Cutting-edge augmented reality (AR) technology gives us the ability to overlay digital information onto someone’s view of the physical world. At DAS Labs, we specialize in combining augmented reality and artificial intelligence to optimize decision-making processes. We’ve been developing augmented reality apps to revolutionize the car maintenance industry, which could bring us all into a world where augmented reality auto repair is the new standard. 

Augmented Reality Auto Use Cases

AR-Assisted Diagnostics

Using mobile devices, tablets, or headsets, a technician can use augmented reality to quickly identify specific parts and display relevant data such as component status, error codes, and maintenance history. This real-time overlay of information helps technicians pinpoint problems without needing to refer to separate manuals or diagnostic tools. AR isn’t a replacement for service technicians - instead, it’s a tool to reduce the time they spend on the more monotonous tasks their jobs require. 

AR-assisted diagnostic tools benefit both the technician and the overall business in the following ways:

• Increased Accuracy: AR provides precise information about vehicle components, reducing the likelihood of diagnostic errors.

• Efficiency: Technicians can access all necessary data instantly, speeding up the troubleshooting process.

• Enhanced Learning: Technicians, especially less experienced ones, benefit from on-the-job learning as AR provides detailed insights and explanations about various components and issues.

• Reduced Downtime: Faster and more accurate diagnostics mean vehicles spend less time in the shop, improving customer satisfaction and service throughput.

  
  

Interactive Repair Guides

A use case we’re particularly excited about for automotive AR is interactive repair and maintenance guides. These guides provide technicians with step-by-step visual instructions overlaid directly onto the vehicle, making complex repairs simpler and more intuitive. Our unique technology combines an extensive manual with the ability to visually identify parts, which can reduce training time and margin or error. 

How Augmented Reality Auto Repair Works

Technicians use the AR device that makes the most business sense for their shop, such as smart glasses, headsets, smartphones, or tablets to access interactive repair guides. These guides are designed to recognize specific parts and provide visual cues and instructions on how to perform repairs. For example, if a technician needs to replace a timing belt, the AR guide will highlight the belt's location, outline the tools required, and provide animated instructions for each step of the process.

Benefits

Let’s address the elephant in the room directly: augmented reality auto repair is not positioned to take jobs from mechanics. In fact, the technology very much relies on skilled technicians to conduct maintenance. It’s designed to support both those technicians and the organizations they work for by reducing training needs and providing more hands-on training opportunities. Additionally, AR guides offer detailed, precise instructions which reduce the need for mechanics to rely on memorization and increase precision. Both technicians and their shops will benefit from repairs being consistently completed correctly the first time.  

Interested in implementing augmented reality auto repair for your organization? Reach out today for a free consultation. We can’t wait to hear from you.