New Cosmos Electric Co., Ltd., ENEOS GLOBE Corporation, Tokyo Gas Engineering Solutions Corporation, and NeoRealX Inc. have jointly developed “Laser Gas Visualizer,” a system that visualizes gas leaks using augmented reality (AR). Development began on March 31, 2026, with the goal of commercializing the product in 2027.
The development of this technology stems from social challenges such as aging infrastructure and a shortage of skilled technicians. Conventional gas leak testing relied heavily on the experience and intuition of skilled inspectors to interpret the ever-changing diffusion of leaked gas. There was a growing need, particularly among gas companies and plant operators, for a highly reproducible testing technique that anyone could use.
“Laser Gas Visualizer” is a work support system that combines a laser gas detector with AR glasses. Inspectors wear a helmet equipped with a laser gas detector and can perform hands-free inspections simply by looking at the object being inspected. Detected numerical data is processed in real time, and the distribution of gas is displayed as a “gas cloud” overlaid in the inspector’s field of view. Even if the inspector moves, the display position is maintained by the accelerometer in the AR glasses, allowing for visual detection of leak locations.
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Furthermore, it features voice guidance and display control to provide real-time information on appropriate work speeds and points to note. It supports safe and efficient inspections, regardless of experience level.
The four companies will conduct field tests and aim to commercialize the product in 2027. They also plan to expand the range of compatible gases to include ammonia and other gases in addition to methane.
This article is an English translation of an original Japanese article, translated by the Mogura VR editorial team.
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