Integrating Augmented Reality Technology into Condition Based Monitoring Laboratory Experiments (Practice)

This paper examines the pilot phase integration of Augmented Reality (AR) technology into a Condition Based Monitoring (CBM) engineering taught module. Students participate in a laboratory cycle within the CBM module, engaging in multiple experiments on a weekly basis, including Shaft Alignment, which provides meaningful, industry-relevant experience in an engineering environment. During the laboratory sessions, multiple pairs of students complete the experiment simultaneously on multiple custom engineering rigs. The Shaft Alignment procedure, although very relevant to industry needs, is also complex and time consuming, with students often struggling to complete the task within the designated laboratory time. AR technology has been introduced into this module to improve the experimental instructional design, improve the learning experiences for the students and reduce unavoidable practical delays during the experimental cycle. Existing experimental procedures have been implemented as AR content including re-crafted instructional content, multimedia content (videos and images), and custom CAD data overlaid on the engineering rigs as AR reference geometry. The newly-introduced AR-based experiments were completed by multiple students over the course of a number of weeks in April and May 2023. Students provided participant feedback via survey before and after engagement with the AR technology. Test groups were aligned within the class as comparators in terms of using existing non-AR procedures and new AR-enhanced procedures. The outcomes from this pilot phase are presented in this paper, with particular focus on student and lecturer experience, knowledge gained in the context of content creation pathways for future AR integration and increased productivity within the laboratory.