Proof of concept for visualizing invisible hazards in mixed reality

Fortum is a leading clean-energy company that provides its customers with electricity, heating and cooling as well as smart solutions to improve resource efficiency. The company is a forerunner in digitalising business practices and creating digital solutions to improve operational efficiencies and to create value for its customers.

As part of the VARPU project Fortum and Stereoscape collaborated to develop MR technology for use in field operations. VARPU is a large research project on application of VR, AR and MR in industry, funded by 18 consortium partners – both Fortum and Stereoscape among them –  and TEKES. Together with Fortum Stereoscape created a technological proof of concept for visualising invisible hazards in MR. In operations, where field workers’ safety could be at risk from hazards that cannot be detected by sight, smell or any other human senses, the role of such applications can be lifesaving.

The results of from the proof of concept are promising:  simulated data were integrated in the real environment with a appreciated accuracy – alignment error in the centimetre range. Useful experience and data were gained on the feasibility of MR to explore simulation results in a real environment. The specialists from both partners see a lot of potential for further development.