Making Utilities “Smarter” with AR/VR, IoT, AI, and Digital Twins

Introduction

Immersive technologies like augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) have been around for a while now. In that time, how they are viewed by enterprises has also evolved. In the early days, it was believed that these technologies were best suited for creating engagement and delivering entertainment. Over time, the applications grew in areas like learning and training, customer immersion and engagement, and field service. As the applications multiplied, so did the value they delivered in the utilities sector. Let’s look at how these technologies have become embedded into various functions and workflows in the utilities sector and how their scope and scale are expanding.

The use of AR/VR systems in the utilities sector is quite common in areas like:

• Maintenance operations
• Worker safety
• Employee training
• Remote assistance

However, that is not all. By combining AR/VR with digital technologies like AI, IoT, and Digital twins, we are now looking at more “exciting” possibilities in the future in areas previously untouched by these innovations. For instance, inspecting telecom towers:

1. Powered by AI and computer vision, “intelligent” drones can inspect and capture footage of cell towers.
2. Next, the application generates a real-time digital twin of the physical telecom tower.
3. Using AI-powered algorithms, digital twins then detect a potential issue with the telecom infrastructure.
4. Using an AR/VR representation, maintenance teams can overlay the digital twin over the physical tower to pinpoint the exact location of the problem.
5. Based on these insights, telecom maintenance teams can quickly make the right decision on how to fix the problem.

Let’s explore further and look at how the utility sector can get “smarter” with a combination of AR/VR, AI, IoT, and Digital twins.

1. Transforming GIS with IoT and Generative AI

For years, geographical information systems (GIS) have been efficient at capturing and rendering geographical data. When combined with digital twins, GIS can effectively enrich digital models with geographical insights. Further, by integrating IoT sensors, GIS can enable a real-time data feed for the digital twins.

For example, GIS can provide critical geographical data to digital twins – using digital replicas of a smart city. This data includes real-time traffic and weather data.

Generative AI models can amplify GIS capabilities by analyzing real-time data and performing predictive modeling to improve decision-making capabilities. This capability is crucial in emergencies that require quick, smart responses.

To add to the mix, an AR/VR-enabled system (integrated with the digital twin) allows users to “virtually” interact with the digital twin simulation. This rich and immersive experience supports a “smart” decision-making process.

Here are some benefits of implementing this powerful solution:

• Enhanced asset management through real-time geographical data and equipment condition.
• Faster incident response by field service teams with real-time data insights – augmented by AI and immersive technologies.

2. Managing Water utilities with AI, Digital Twins, and Immersive technology

In the face of growing water demand, water supply utilities are unable to cope due to their ageing infrastructure. Digital twins can potentially transform water management through efficient and sustainable practices. As an example, digital twins can replicate the entire water supply system, distribution networks, and water treatment facilities.

Further, AI-powered algorithms can analyze real-time data from water sensors and provide insights into:

• Supply performance
• Maintenance requirements
• Various operations

Another exciting use case is in water infrastructure planning and maintenance. With digital twins, water utility companies can “visualize” the impact of any infrastructure upgrade or modification. Additionally, by using AR/VR-enabled immersive experiences, stakeholders can improve their decisions related to water management.

3. The use of mixed reality in utility field services

Essentially, mixed reality is the convergence of the physical and digital worlds, encompassing multiple technologies including AR and VR. Mixed reality (MR) has the potential to transform field service operations in utility companies. For instance, it offers benefits in the installation and maintenance of utility systems like solar grids, water pipes, and telecommunication devices.

Here are a few benefits of MR in the domain of field service operations:

• Remote diagnosis of utility assets, thus saving both travel time and expenses.
• Improved work efficiency for field service technicians – with real-time access to user manuals, maintenance-related instructions, and troubleshooting guides.
• Faster inspection of remote utilities, thus improving productivity and customer satisfaction.

4. Energy sustainability with AR/VR

Empowering sustainability is now a growing mantra in utility companies. Through public engagement and education, AR and VR technologies can contribute to improving sustainability. For instance, the renewable energy sector can harness the power of immersive technologies to:

• Create virtual models of solar panels and wind turbines.
• Create visual representations of how renewable systems generate energy.
• Highlight the problem of resource depletion and climate change.

Here are some of the possible applications of AR/VR in renewable energy:

1. Interactive learning

Through VR, young students can now visualize renewable energy systems and collaborate on their findings.

2. Simulated training

AR and VR-based simulated training can educate technicians and maintenance engineers on the working of renewable energy equipment. In “virtual” environments, they can learn how to respond to critical situations.

3. Improved system designs

In the domain of energy sustainability, AR/VR-powered immersive experiences can help product designers improve the system design and performance. With real-time interactions with virtual objects, they can visualize and plan their next renewable energy project.

Additionally, VR-enabled simulated environments can facilitate stakeholders with a virtualized walk-through of the proposed energy facility.

Role of Pratiti Technologies in Making Utilities Smarter

For a long time, the role of immersive technology like AR and  VR has largely been restricted to machine inspections and maintenance. This narrative is gradually changing to include more exciting applications in utilities like:

• Water management
• Sustainable energy
• Geographical information

At Pratiti Technologies, we recognize the future belongs to smart energy systems. We are powering digital transformation in the energy and utilities sector with our expertise in technologies like:

• Internet of Things
• AR and VR
• Digital twins

Our energy accelerators can power you forward towards digital success. Contact us today!

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