By Carol Grace for RobotLAB.com
Recent years have seen an increased adoption of technology in education, from the move to virtual learning environments to the use of robotics in classrooms. For example, the previous post highlights how collaborative robots or cobots have unlimited potential not only to improve health and safety in the workplace, but also to transform education, especially in the context of engineering education. Through flexible, open-ended programming, cobots can help students hone their problem-solving skills and adapt to more complex robotics applications.
In addition to cobots, another emerging technology demonstrating benefits in the classroom environment is augmented reality. Below we look at what augmented reality is and how its applications can help students better understand robot programming.
A brief overview of augmented reality
While virtual reality (VR) fully immerses the user in an artificial environment, augmented reality (AR) maintains the user’s connection to the physical world and blends it with computer-generated content. This gives the user more control over the simulated environment, rather than being isolated from the real world.
The digital and three-dimensional elements overlaid in AR are made accessible through tools and devices such as smartphones, glasses and headsets. These usually come with interactive displays, controls, sensors and other smart features such as a Global Positioning System (GPS) that correctly tracks the user’s environment and determines where the virtual content should be overlaid. For example, RobotLAB’s Package for AR/VR classrooms includes a mobile AR/VR device pre-installed with the RobotLAB Expeditions V2.0 app, offering unique options for both self-guided and teacher-led lessons and tours. In addition to chargers, selfie sticks, tablets, and an optional 360° camera, educators can expand their classroom AR/VR setup by learning more about other AR tools and platforms that can be integrated into student robot programming lessons, as highlighted in the next section . .
AR application in teaching robot programming
Increased engagement
Because AR adds interest to the physical environment through virtual elements such as 3D models and robot designs, it can increase student engagement with how the robot moves and interacts based on its programming.
The first step to understanding robotic movement and installation is to capture the real world that Ray-Ban Meta smart glasses perfectly executed with its real-time content creation capabilities for audio, photo and video recording.
While these smart glasses are not yet fully-fledged AR devices, their role as seamless wearable technology may be the first step towards projecting AR content into the user’s field of vision. In addition to the ultra-wide 12MP camera and open speakers that can help keep students connected to the real world around them, teachers can also use the live streaming feature to stay focused and engaged even in virtual classrooms.
Better learning outcomes
By being exposed to AR learning experiences, robot programming students can also be more hands-on and improve their hands-on skills compared to just learning through videos or lectures. As an article published in the journal Procedia CIRP shows, AR-based robot programming allows students to directly interact with and move robotic hardware such as a robotic arm through a demonstration.
In contrast, this technique of learning by demonstration cannot be fully replicated in the closer environment of a VR headset. As students gain the ability to program, control and visualize the robot’s movement through an AR headset and user-friendly interface, teachers can expect specific knowledge acquisition and improved learning outcomes.
Opportunities for collaboration
Finally, AR and mixed reality content can be supported cloud platforms like Microsoft Mesh. Using realistic 3D avatars in an immersive classroom environment, students not only learn how robots can be programmed and deployed in simulated environments, but also collaborate with their peers on more complex projects and situations, such as exploring how robots can be installed in production and manufacturing. device.
In short, AR paves the way for better understanding of robot programming through better engagement, collaboration and learning outcomes.
Learn more about AR with RobotLAB!
AR/VR for the classroom and school package
