Augmented and virtual reality to improve safety, efficiency, and operator training in maintenance and inspection: A literature review
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In recent years, operator training has undergone significant transformation through the adoption of immersive technologies such as Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR). These technologies offer new opportunities to enhance safety, efficiency, and training effectiveness in the maintenance and inspection of electrical infrastructures, where medium- and low-voltage operations involve high occupational risks. AR enables real-time, context-aware support by overlaying digital information onto the physical environment, while VR provides immersive simulation environments for safe training and skill development. Based on the analysis of 12 selected studies, this review highlights how immersive technologies are primarily applied to improve operator safety, support experiential learning, and enhance operational efficiency. The findings indicate that AR is predominantly used for on-site assistance and procedural guidance, whereas VR is mainly adopted for simulation-based training and performance assessment. Current limitations and future research directions for industrial maintenance applications are also discussed.
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