Stryker and AR

 

The way that Stryker manages its online trainings is by dividing them into 2 levels.

Level 1 represents a “high-level” product check, where the aim is to perform a functional test without having to open the device. This also includes factory test which ensures that the product is save to use – no danger of electrical shocks.

While level 2 consists of level 1, it also goes more into depth, where opening the unit is essential. To execute the repair here, parts of the product are disassembled and replaced with new spares. Additionally, a quality inspection procedure is carried out. This ensures that all changes made within the device are stable and pose no threat to the patient nor the surgeon.

As Level 1 training requires only documentation, the use of AR in level 2 would be seen as a great advantage to the current procedure.

“AR in that situation would be useful for both the trainer and the trainee as the unit will be available to control and see by both sides” – Heinz Lossau – training manager

Other aspects that AR would impact are quality and control. These are both of high importance to the repair procedures carried out. Essentially, this would allow the training manager to track every step of the trainee – from what spare has been used, to which test, and steps have been completed – an aspect that represents a “grey area” for the trainer at this moment with only the PC build-in camera being used.

On another hand, AR is no stranger to Stryker – the technology has already been adapted for surgeons and operating rooms. Given the benefits it sustains, it could be said that the company is looking forward to future developments and implementation of argumentative reality into its repair and maintenance procedures.