AR Takes Flight at GE Aviation

In 2017, GE Aviation started a pilot using Glass (formerly Google Glass) and Upskill’s Skylight software to help apply the right amount of torque for bolt tightening during assembly.  

From GE

At the time, Ted Robertson, engineering manager at GE Aviation, said, “This has tremendous potential to minimize errors, cut down on costs, and improve product quality. We’ve also seen an increase in productivity and efficiency improvements.”

It was as if the smart glasses were helping Robertson see into the future. GE’s initial deployment achieved 8-11% efficiency improvements in terms of time to task completion. In some cases, it achieved 38-minute completions, down from 51 minutes, a 25 percent improvement.

It’s no wonder GE Aviation continues to use immersive technology in assembly, maintenance, service, and more. In addition to ensuring B-nuts are properly tightened, GE Aviation is using AR and VR in other ways. 

For example, without VR, mechanics have to walk away from the engine to check documentation. AR line-of-sight instructions and videos put the information closer to its relevant location. Headsets can also track mechanics’ work, which can be used for ongoing systems optimization, detailed engine maintenance files, chain of custody reports, and even digital twins.

AR and VR are successfully being used for training employees, but the value of these technologies is undeniable when it comes to guiding workers through complex tasks—like aviation assembly. Guidance helps reduce cognitive load on the worker and therefore lessens mistakes.

According to AR Insider, the effectiveness of immersive technology results from AR-guided speed, accuracy, and safety. AR’s line-of-sight orientation can guide front-line workers. Compared to the “mental mapping” they must do with 2D instructions, line-of-sight support makes them more effective. 

These day-to-day efficiencies add up to worthwhile bottom-line impact when deployed at scale. Bigger benefits include lessening job strain and the skills gap by preserving institutional knowledge.

PTC, a leader in AR, reports up to 40% improvements in new employee productivity, 30% greater first-time fix rates, 50% reductions in training costs, and 25% reductions in materials scrap.

Immersive tech is well established at GE. Time for it to take off at other enterprises.