Volvo CE launches augmented reality App for technicians

Volvo Construction Equipment (Volvo CE) has launched a new app that will enable dealer field technicians to video call their back office equipment specialists – and Volvo CE’s own product experts and engineers – while on site.

Designed to help technicians diagnose and resolve potential problems quickly, the Real-time Tech Support app uses a live augmented reality video feed that allows up to four participants to see exactly what the field technician sees.

The app is currently intended for use by Volvo’s official dealers, but Volvo CE told Construction Europe that it could be made available for operators of larger fleets, such as rental companies and contractors, with consultation.

In addition to offering suggestions, participants can also point to things on the screen and record the call so they can review it later.  

Aram Ibrahim, head of Uptime Support at Volvo CE, said, “In the past, when a field technician needed more help to diagnose and fix an issue, they might take some photos, go back to the dealership and talk to colleagues or a arrange a call with the Volvo product support team. This could result in multiple visits to the jobsite and frustrating downtime for the customer.

“Now, field technicians can benefit from the expertise of their colleagues as if they were at the customer’s site with them.”

The app is available to field technicians across Europe, the Middle East, Africa and Oceania.

Volvo CE described its Real-Time Tech Support app as “the next step” in a more collaborative approach to improving machine uptime and said the technology would help to further safeguard customers’ productivity and profitability.

Ibrahim added, “It is also a part of our digitalization journey and we are excited to see how this could pave the way for future technologies like smart glasses or the ability to see inside structures. But for the moment, Real-time Tech Support will improve our efficiency even more and maximize machine uptime.”

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