The Royal Canadian Navy is testing a Mixed Reality Remote Assistant Support (MIRRAS) system, as part of a project that aims to improve maintenance and repairs aboard active naval vessels, provided by Kognitiv Spark.
Specifically the MIRRAS system is based on the company’s software for the Microsoft HoloLens, an off-the-shelf augmented reality (AR) device.
According to the company, the software combines artificial intelligence and augmented reality to make the procedure of vessel repairs, maintenance and knowledge transfer more efficient.
This technology will be used by the Navy’s technicians and weapons engineering technicians.
Concerning remote maintenance, an expert on shore will be able to see what the person that wears the augmented reality glasses sees, from anywhere around the globe.
Also, the expert will be in the place to provide guidance using real-time voice and video, interactive 3D holograms and content, and live IoT data. The technician can also use locally stored data when a remote expert isn’t available.
As RAdm Casper Donovan, Director General Future Ship Capability for the RCN noted
Innovation and technological advancement are critical to the future of the Royal Canadian Navy. The Mixed Reality Remote Assistant Support system provides our sailors with the opportunity to explore a new, and potentially much more efficient way of conducting onboard maintenance.
