Implementing Digital Maintenance with Augmented Reality

Project tasks

• Defining a relevant digital maintenance use case
• Parametrising the AR-based inspection system
• Localising software and adapting interfaces
• Setting up and supporting an on-site pilot project
• Training personnel and supporting prototype testing
• Evaluating results and delivering an application report

Our approach

PROSE implemented an AR-supported prototype for a railway sector customer as part of a pilot project to digitalise maintenance processes for bogies. The objective was to replace paper-based inspection workflows and improve data quality and traceability.

The selected use case covered dimensional inspection under defined load conditions with structured checkpoints and tolerances. PROSE digitalised existing inspection processes and transformed them into guided digital workflows for mobile devices and AR headsets. Nominal values and wear limits were integrated to ensure systematic inspections and direct recording of deviations. The application enables hands-free operation as well as structured real-time data capture and further processing.

The pilot project included configuration of the application, execution under real workshop conditions, and evaluation with regard to usability, data quality, and operational limits.

PROSE combined railway engineering expertise with digital technology know-how and worked with a specialised AR partner.

We defined a suitable use case together with the customer and implemented it directly on-site as part of the pilot project. We configured and validated the application iteratively based on real maintenance processes.

Our approach included close collaboration with customer personnel, rapid adaptation of digital workflows, and targeted training of users.

Customer benefit

The customer received a validated prototype demonstrating how digital and AR-supported maintenance can improve efficiency and quality. Paper-based processes are reduced, training time is shortened, and inspections become more consistent and guided.

Hands-free operation and real-time documentation improve usability and data quality in workshop environments. At the same time, digital records enhance traceability and support integration into existing maintenance systems.

Through PROSE’s independent expertise and cross-industry insights, the customer gained a solid basis for further development and implementation of digital maintenance solutions.