WeldAR: Augmenting Live Hands-On Training with In-Situ Guidance for Novice Learners

TL;DR

WeldAR is an augmented reality system that provides real-time guidance during live welding training, significantly improving novice learners' performance through in-situ feedback and hands-on practice.

Contribution

The paper introduces WeldAR, a novel AR system for live physical skill training, with empirical evidence demonstrating its effectiveness over traditional video instruction.

Findings

AR improves welding speed and work angle in novices

Real-time feedback enhances skill transfer to independent tasks

WeldAR supports embodied learning in physical trades

Abstract

Extended Reality (XR) systems for physical skill training have largely emphasized simulation rather than real-time in-situ instruction. We present WeldAR, an Augmented Reality (AR) system with five learning modules that overlays real-time guidance during live welding using a headset integrated into a welding helmet and a torch attachment. We conducted an in-situ within-subjects study with 24 novices, comparing AR guidance to video instruction for live welding across practice and unassisted tests. AR improved performance in both assisted practice and unassisted tests, primarily driven by gains in travel speed and work angle. By offering real-time feedback on four performance measures, AR supported novices in carrying embodied knowledge into independent tasks. Our contributions include: (1) WeldAR for in-situ physical skill training; (2) empirical evidence that AR enhances composite welding performance and key physical skills; and (3) implications for the development of AR systems that support in-situ, embodied skill training in welding and related trades.