Proximus presents innovative aR and VR glasses that radically change logistics processes and training

During the avant-premiere of "The Future of Work" theme tour at LogiVille, VIL's innovative demonstration center, logistics professionals got a preview of how technology is fundamentally reshaping their sector. One eye-catching feature? ProximusNXT's smart glasses, which allow warehouse and transport employees to work more efficiently, safely and flexibly. Thanks to virtual and assisted reality (VR and aR), training, support and administration are transformed into a digital experience.

AR and VR technology are no longer science fiction, but practical tools with direct added value in logistics. This became clear during ProximusNXT's demo session, presented by Francis Duvivier, IoT Business Developer and Solution Manager, and Joke Tisaun, Business Innovation & Development Manager. The innovative applications, aimed specifically at operational processes such as warehousing, maintenance, training and transport, attracted the attention of numerous professionals.

During the Theme Tour, Francis Duvivier demonstrated the power of Assisted Reality. "With aR glasses, you give people on the shop floor direct remote support," he explained. "Think of a warehouse employee who needs help dissecting a technical plan: thanks to the built-in camera, an expert watches from a distance and gives directions that the employee sees on a small screen. This not only saves time, it also increases safety and efficiency."

For logistics operations such as order picking, the glasses offer a big advantage. "QR codes can be easily scanned while the user consults documentation, videos and instructions - completely hands-free, leaving the user's hands free to work safely. He also maintains his full field of vision and remains aware of his surroundings, which is crucial in a dynamic warehouse environment."

"The glasses can automatically tick off process steps. Think quality control or inventory management: you no longer have to write anything down afterwards," Duvivier said. "The data is stored in real time, which ensures fewer errors and better traceability. And because the glasses connect via Wi-Fi, 4G or 5G, they can be deployed in virtually any location, from the warehouse to a customer's premises."

Training in a virtual world 

Where aR provides support while working, VR puts its faith in education and training. In Joke Tisaun's demonstration, this aspect took center stage.

"Virtual reality allows you to safely simulate complex or dangerous situations," says Tisaun. "A fire safety training or first aid scenario is experienced life-like, without having to recreate a physical environment. This is not only safer, but also cost-effective."

 "In industries where every minute counts, such as healthcare or aviation, training in a VR environment can bring tremendous benefits. Think of cleaning an operating theater or handling hazardous materials. In a digital twin environment (digital twin), these situations can be practiced without risk. And when you know that every unused minute in a hospital operating room costs a hundred euros, the bill is quickly made."

"Students or trainees can take the courses when it suits them, in their own language and in an environment that caters to their learning style," Tisaun says. "The technology is science-based: users absorb information faster and feel more engaged with the content."

The game element - gamification - also plays an important role, especially with younger generations. "We develop avatars that can be used in role plays, for example for aggression training or customer conversations. This not only makes training more efficient, but also more fun and realistic."

Two glasses, one vision

The strength of ProximusNXT's approach lies in the combination of aR and VR. Employees first receive thorough training in a safe virtual environment. Afterwards, they are further guided on the shop floor with the aR glasses. This creates a continuous learning cycle, from preparation to practice.

"The applications are fully customizable to the needs of the company," Tisaun emphasizes. "We offer generic training that can be deployed immediately, but can also provide customized training together with our content partners. Whether it's forklift training, safety instructions or logistics process flows - anything can be
adjusted."