AR work instructions for manufacturing project step-by-step visual guidance directly onto parts, tools and workstations. Operators can see where to work while keeping both hands free, with less need to look back and forth between the task and a separate screen.
Ansomat combines projection-based augmented reality with digital operator guidance for assembly, inspection, repair and rework. Explore the workflow below or book a demo using a process from your own shop floor.
Augmented reality work instructions add digital cues to the physical task. In projection-based AR, a projector highlights the relevant location on the work surface and displays the next instruction. The operator follows the configured sequence rather than interpreting a separate paper drawing at every step.
A typical manufacturing workflow is:
AR is one way to deliver digital work instructions. A screen can be more suitable for detailed text, diagrams or a workstation where projection is obstructed.
Train with the real task and tools
Projected guidance can help new operators find the correct component or work location while they practise the actual process. Instructions can be adapted to the operator’s skill level, so experienced staff receive the support they need without repeating every training detail.
Measure the impact at one workstation first
Choose a repeatable task and compare training time, first-time-right completion, rework and operator feedback before and after the pilot. Results depend on the process, workstation setup and training approach; improvement percentages should not be treated as guaranteed outcomes for every installation.
See a practical application in Autocraft’s EV battery repair workflow with AR operator guidance.
Put the instruction where the work happens
Projected AR can be useful when operators must identify a specific assembly position, connector, component or inspection point. Both hands stay available for the task, and colleagues can see the same visual guidance without sharing a headset.
Check the fit for your workstation
Assess lighting, surface contrast, shadows, working distance and whether parts stay in a repeatable position. Large or moving workpieces, blocked projection areas and tasks needing extensive text may be better served by a screen or a combination of guidance methods.
Our guide to when projectors work well for AR work instructions explains the selection criteria.
An AR projector displays visual work instructions on the work surface without requiring wearable devices. A typical setup combines a projector, a computer, Ansomat software and a suitable mounting position. Images and guidance elements are positioned to match the physical workstation.
Start with one representative process. Prepare the instruction sequence, align the projected visuals and test visibility with the actual parts, tools and operators. Confirm the setup under normal production lighting and check alignment after changes to the workstation.
If tool signals, barcode scans or process validation are required, agree the necessary devices and integrations as part of the project. Projection identifies where to work; verification depends on the checks configured for your process.
For a wider view, read our guide to augmented reality in manufacturing or compare work instructions software capabilities.
Pictures, videos, 3D model, shapes, colors, text, ..
Speed up AR-instruction creation through drag&drop onto the work area
Picture taking from phone directly projected
Project more or less visual cues depending on operator skills
Add multiple projectors to create even a larger work area
Spotlight
Our Companion App automatically captures process images and uploads them to your media library, where they can be instantly projected onto the work area.
As a result, your team can create ready-to-use visual work instructions in minutes. This automation also reduces manual documentation and accelerates setup, helping you maintain efficiency and consistency across all operations.
Spotlight
Create AR work instructions from behind your desk
Simply upload an image of the work area and use it as your starting point. This allows you to create and upload AR designs remotely, then deploy them across the shop floor instantly, eliminating the need to go station by station and saving valuable time for process engineers.
Drag & drop simplicity
Easily drag and drop the necessary tools into your design,each one will automatically appear in the correct position within the virtual work area.
An AR projector is a device that displays instructions or visual cues directly onto physical surfaces in a production environment. In practice, this can be any standard projector, as long as it can connect to a computer, typically via an HDMI cable.
No, augmented reality is not always the best solution for operator guidance, it depends on the application.
Augmented reality work instructions are especially valuable in environments with high staff turnover, complex processes, or many product variants. When training time is limited and upskilling operators quickly is critical, AR can significantly improve efficiency and reduce errors.
However, in some cases, simpler solutions may be sufficient. Basic digital work instructions can work well for stable, repetitive processes. Similarly, projection augmented reality using an AR projector may not be ideal in environments where the workspace is too large, constantly changing, or not standardized.
In situations where hands-free guidance and shared visibility are important, projection-based AR can be a strong alternative. More info to be found in this article:
AR Work Instructions in Manufacturing: When Projectors Win
Ultimately, the right choice depends on balancing complexity, scalability, and the practical realities of the production environment.
The size of the work area that an AR projector can cover depends on the type of projector used, but typically a single system can project onto an area of around 4 meters. For larger or more complex workspaces, multiple projectors can be combined into one system to expand the coverage and support bigger work areas.
The right AR projector depends on factors like mounting height, work area size (field of view and throw distance), and whether a short-throw model is needed. You should also consider brightness, light source (laser vs. lamp), and resolution for clear visual work instructions.
