Dynamic operator instructions based on augmented reality and rule-based expert systems

Augmented reality is currently a hot research topic within manufacturing and a great potential of the technique is seen. This study aims to increase the knowledge of the adaptation and usability of augmented reality for the training of operators. A new approach of using dynamic information content is proposed that is automatically adjusted to the individual operator and his/her learning progress for increased efficiency and shorter learning times. The approach make use of the concept of expert systems from the field of artificial intelligence for determine the information content on-line. A framework called "Augmented Reality Expert System" (ARES) is developed that combines AR and expert systems. A proof-of-concept evaluation of the framework is presented in the paper and possible future extensions are discussed. (C) 2015 The Authors. Published by Elsevier B.V. This is an open access article under the CC BY-NC-ND license (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0/).