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Dŵr Cymru Welsh Water

Augmented Reality - Theory into Practical Application in the UK Water Industry

Owners of complex assets need to provide comprehensive information on how to operate and maintain their assets to asset operators, visitors and regulators, traditionally in the form of an ‘operations and maintenance’ manual which runs to thousands of printed pages. Here at DŵrCymru Welsh Water we have created the Interactive Works Operating Manual (IWOM)to deliver complex information in a robust device, utilising sensing technology, augmented and virtual reality to tell colleagues their location on the asset, allowing for items of equipment to be interrogated via readable Quick Reference (QR)codes or Near Field Communication(NFC) tags and provides information which can include running states and maintenance requirements. The IWOM helps colleagues make informed, accurate decisions which help reduce errors and risk and improve customer service.

The IWOM is a ‘smart’ electronic manual which can be worn or held by colleagues, it delivers complex technical information including schematics, process flows, electrical drawings, maintenance records and service requirements in a simple to use, intuitive device. The IWOM uses NFC and QR Codes to identify equipment and presents colleagues with information about the equipment. The IWOM is intrinsically safe so can be used outdoors or in hazardous, wet and dusty environments, it uses augmented reality (AR) to overlay a computer-generated image over the real-world environment.

This can show process information and instructions such as directional information for valves and switches, or ideal operating ranges for gauges and dials – information hovers in front of colleagues and does not obstruct their view, minimising risk but enhancing what they see, helping colleagues make the right decisions and record operating information.

The IWOM delivers this information in an interactive and visually attractive way. Site inductions can include videos, highlighting areas of high hazard and daily dynamic risks, colleagues sign the device and these records interface with SAP so that records can be retrieved either on a site by site basis or a per user basis helping prove compliance.

Operational efficiencies driven by ‘LEAN’ methodologies are also included in the IWOM. The device automates the delivery of ‘LEAN’ ‘Rounds’ and ‘Tasks’ and prompts for user action at the required timeframes. Colleagues can wear or hold the IWOM, undertake rounds and record findings which are automatically and seamlessly synced with the central ‘LEAN’ records. This removes the need for paper records and the multiple handing of the same data saving time, driving efficiency and reducing the likelihood of operator error in data transfer.

User acceptance of any of these new technologies is crucial - the delivery team have adopted a three pronged approach;

• User engagement
• Testing
• Functional use.

The IWOM is a product that operators in the field want to use. Since inception the development team have worked side by side with operational teams to ensure that what is developed is what operational teams want. The successful IWOM proof of concept is now owned by Potable Water Production and Wastewater Treatment. User feedback has been excellent and there is a real hunger to widen the scope and show what we can achieve with the smart application of the technology, driving efficiencies and increasing safety and reliability.

Engagement with industry and emerging technology developers has been continuous. The development team realised Welsh Water was leading the way in the water and sewage sector in the application and use of this technology. The team have engaged with industrial and commercial sectors on a voluntary basis, to share ideas with university’s and wider development groups and workshops (such as Augmented Reality for Enterprise Alliance (AREA), British Computer Society and the UK Wearable Technology Development Group).

The articles from these contributors are based on their personal expertise and viewpoints, and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of their employers or affiliated organizations.

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