The days of the blow torch, sparks and sweaty environment may soon be a thing of the past when training welders.
There’s now a new way to train, and it has to do with Augmented Reality (AR).
e2i’s Masterclass Collaboration
The first masterclass in AR technology was held at NTUC’s e2i (Employment and Employability Institute) on 6 June 2018 for 150 workers.
NTUC Deputy Secretary-General (DSG) Koh Poh Koon was on hand to launch the programme while trying out the simulated training module for himself.
e2i is supporting Uniweld Products (USA) Pte Ltd to bring AR welding training to locals and to encourage them to consider welding related career pathways.
Job positions cover welding inspectors, supervisors, quality control managers – these provide good career progression and are in demand across many sectors. These include manufacturing and civil industries such as aerospace, construction, marine, oil and gas and process engineering.
“Will there be takers and new blood for our line of business? I believe so. For students who feel that focussing on academics and theory is not their cup of tea, where perhaps hands-on and creativity is where they thrive, welding could be a meaningful career choice for them,” said Uniweld’s Director Belinda Bay.
AR’s Benefits
Compared to the traditional method of using the blow torch, the new method of using digital technology to train welders can educate four times more students and reduce 56 per cent of real workshop time through AR technology.
The AR technology also gives learners more opportunities to improve their accuracy through practice and learn in a comfortable environment.
DSG Koh explained that with the AR modules, more people can be trained in the classroom environment at one go.
Making Training Mobile
According to e2i's CEO Gilbert Tan, training in AR technology can also be brought to the factory.
“e2i is always looking at how we can bring training in a way that is accessible and effective to the workforce in Singapore. Partnering Uniweld would demonstrate this changing training landscape in the area of welding and this will make the training a lot quicker and more targeted at the individuals.
“Also, with this AR training, you can get a score on your welding effectiveness. This allows the trainee to beat his own score as he does better each time and deepens his skills”, says Mr Tan.
Earlier, we told you that DSG Koh had tried his hand at the AR training module for welding.
He scored 80 points at his first go at the technology.
Companies keen to find out more about the masterclass can enquire with e2i.
