BMW has commenced a pilot project to test the impact of wearable technology in improving quality assurance of its cars at its plant in Spartanburg in South Carolina.
Workers at the plant are using Google Glass to record tests by taking photos and videos to document potential deviations, and to provide a better, and clearer way to analyse production.
The pilot project is aimed at bridging the communication gap between quality testers and development engineers.
Use of Google Glass could help in issues related to manual documentation as previously; potential issues in pre-series vehicles were documented in writing.
According to the company, sometimes the problem description was too vague, which used to prompt further questions.
With smart glass development engineers can add photos and video to their reports to communicate the problem clearly.
BMW project coordinator Dr. Jörg Schulte said: "During the term of the pilot project, we are planning to add a video call feature so that a problem can be discussed with the responsible development areas right there and then."
According to the company by far the pilot project has been a success and it is planning to use the technology for the final assembly of series vehicles.
Schulte added: "With Google Glass, the testing staff could stay right at the vehicle, look at the test plans on the device's integrated display and sign them off via voice control. So both hands would be free to conduct the tests at all times."
Image:Smart eyewear being used for quality assurance. Photo: courtesy of BMW.
