AR tool lets mechanics hone their skills on virtual trucks

Transportation fleets face the constant challenge of keeping their trucks in peak operating condition, all while ensuring that their technicians are up to date on the latest technology. Now, a training platform might make those tasks easier by using augmented reality (AR) to let techs study digital versions of equipment from any location.

The Virtual Equipment Training product from Orlando, Fla.-based Design Interactive Inc. is designed to be used in conjunction with the company's Augmentor transportation-focused AR software. Training content can be supplied to technicians on either smartphones or HoloLens virtual-reality headsets, enabling managers to distribute transportation-focused training modules across multiple maintenance locations.

"Virtual Equipment Training gives technicians the ability to train even when a vehicle or piece of equipment is not available," Matt Johnston, division head of commercial solutions for Design Interactive, said in a release. "This new capability improves shop productivity because technicians no longer have to waste valuable time waiting for equipment to be available or for suppliers to schedule classroom training. Technicians can train using augmented reality anywhere, anytime using nothing more than the phone already in their pocket."