Vestdavit deploys augmented reality to enhance remote support

Vestdavit enhances its remote support offering with augmented reality software from Ubimax, a provider of wearable technology solutions. The platform, named “xAssist”, will be used in conjunction with head-mounted hardware “RealWear HMT-1”.

The platform will allow Vestdavit engineers to provide service when they are unable to work on site. After Sales Director Henric Collvin explains that the idea is not to replace Vestdavit technicians, but to ease the burden on them. ‘Our engineers are highly skilled professionals with many years of experience servicing marine davits, and there is no replacement for that. However, they cannot be everywhere at once, and it is often far more practical to provide remote support.’

For example, if a client requires a small adjustment to one of its boat launch-and-recovery systems, Vestdavit can send the RealWear HMT-1 along with the necessary spare parts. Equipped with the headgear, the customer’s in-house engineer can perform the maintenance task with visual and audio instruction from a Vestdavit expert, who can see what the on-site technician is doing through xAssist.

This, says Collvin, brings great flexibility: ‘We can provide remote support even if all of our specialist technicians are occupied. For instance, an engineer from our hydraulics or mechanical team will be able to guide the customer through any simpler tasks.’

The current global health crisis has exacerbated the need for this kind of service, explains Collvin, but Vestdavit was planning to adopt the Ubimax platform even before the Covid-19 outbreak. ‘Many companies are responding to the pandemic by investing in new technology, but remote maintenance had been gaining traction for some time. Customers are always looking for more efficient, cost-effective ways to operate. With xAssist, we maintain our usual service levels without having to send technicians to our client’s location. This reduces cost and saves time for both parties.’

Picture: Two point davit HN type (by Vestdavit).