Augmented Instructions : A study of methods for utilising 3D models in technical instructions

Sammanfattning: This thesis intends to identify and evaluate appropriate methods for ABB Capacitors to utilise their 3D models instead of 2D representations, with the purpose of reducing costumer’s misconceptions of installation manuals. ABB spends a significant amount of time designing detailed 3D models of their products. These are later converted into 2D representations of the models to create instructions with assembly drawings to their customers. 2D representations are less detailed than the 3D models and require prior experience to give an understanding of the products design. The customers don’t always possess the required experience to install capacitor solutions accordingly, this leads to wrong installations and increased lead-time. Three new visualisation methods were identified and evaluated on behalf of ABB Capacitors requirements and prerequisites. The three methods that were identified are Video recordings, Static-rotatable-3D Model and 3D sequence video. Next step was to identify and evaluate appropriate methods to present the 3D instructions. Initially two methods were considered: Augmented Reality and Virtual Reality. During the testing phase another opportunity was discovered, animated videos with camera views. The conclusion is that ABB Capacitors should replace the current instructions with animated videos with camera views and Augmented Reality experiences. Both suggested methods were demonstrated and evaluated for ABB Capacitors.