Kognitiv Spark to boosts business innovation with mixed reality technology

From the Springboard Content Lab

Imagine a technician in a remote location who needs to perform a complex task or repair specialized machinery.

In the past, this would require sending a qualified trainer into the field to provide support.

The Fredericton-based company Kognitiv Spark is solving this problem by collapsing time and distance with a virtual reality platform called RemoteSpark.

Mixed reality solves problems remotely

The technology – known as mixed reality – is a user-focused platform that combines the physical and digital worlds to create 2D and 3D images that can be accessed by workers who wear specialized goggles developed by Microsoft.

The RemoteSpark tool is tailored for industrial use. It enhances performance by allowing users to work in their physical space while accessing digital content to facilitate task completion, boost operational efficiency, and aid workers with on-the-job training.

These virtual environments allow workers to complete complex tasks remotely. The technology also troubleshoots and provides on-the-job training, onboarding and virtual tours, saving companies and organizations time, money and effort.

RemoteSpark builds workforce productivity, remote healthcare

For industries like manufacturing, construction, energy, defence, and aerospace, RemoteSpark is a powerful tool for training and up-skilling workers, boosting the productivity of companies that use the technology in day-to-day operations.

It also improves the lives of Canadians by delivering remote healthcare services. With RemoteSpark mixed reality, a patient can receive remote instructions for rehab exercises from home. The technology can even create the illusion of a physiotherapist standing in the room with the patient.

The story of Kognitiv Spark is an example of how partnerships between academia, industry, government and research commercialization organizations like Springboard can drive business growth, foster innovation, and help Canadian companies compete globally.

The technology that powers the RemoteSpark platform was developed in collaboration with the University of New Brunswick, Spatial Computing Education, Training & Research Laboratory (SPECTRAL) at UNB under the leadership of professor Dr. Scott Bateman.

“The partnership with UNB and SPECTRAL is not just a benefit for Kognitiv Spark. The capabilities we collaborate on are critical for the development of long-term impact from the technology we can commercialize in a global market. What is truly exciting is the way in which we are partnered to address fundamental issues in society, including support to rural and disadvantaged communities, regardless of location.” - Duncan McSporran, Chief Operations Officer and VP Defence and Public Sector at Kognitiv Spark

SPECTRAL was created with the support of Springboard Atlantic Office of Research Services at UNB

With additional support from industry partner Kognitiv Spark, SPECTRAL is developing a pipeline of research, development and talent that puts Atlantic Canada at the forefront of spatial computing and mixed reality technology.

SPECTRAL is also supported by Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency which recently invested $823,125. Additional support by Kognitiv Spark will advance technology and collaboration making UNB and Kognitiv Spark global leaders in spatial computing.