rep:ar
rep:ar is an augmented reality app that helps consumers repair everyday items themselves.
A Bachelor’s project by Max Mittelstädt
7th semester, 2025
Supervised by Prof. Andrea Krajewski and Prof. Tsunemitsu Tanaka
Background
Repair is becoming increasingly important in a consumerist and throwaway society. It extends the lifespan of products, prevents waste and conserves resources, and contributes to a sustainable world. However, obstacles such as planned obsolescence, a lack of access to spare parts, a lack of repair skills, and the fear of doing something wrong deter people from actively repairing things. Yet repair is more than just a practical activity. It offers a personal and enriching experience and knowledge that go beyond the mere function of the object.
Existing repair initiatives (such as Repair Cafés) already support repair by helping people to help themselves, and create social spaces where, amongst other things, items of personal value can be repaired. The EU ‘Right to Repair’ Directive aims to break down barriers and promote sustainable change, including by providing repair information and access to spare parts and tools. Nevertheless, further measures are still needed to make repair more accessible and attractive.
The app
rep:ar is a service app that helps consumers with repairs. It enables users to understand, repair and extend the lifespan of their everyday items. With the help of augmented reality (AR) and the community network, a space is created that promotes sustainability and DIY repairs.
Augmented Reality
Augmented Reality visualises the repair process and displays step-by-step instructions directly on the faulty item, which helps with orientation, planning and safety. Inexperienced users in particular are expected to benefit from this feature.
Community network
The community network creates a digital space where knowledge, experiences and questions can be shared. In the spirit of ‘helping people to help themselves’ – as seen in Repair Cafés – users can support one another and learn from each other. In addition to the digital space, rep:ar also establishes physical repair centres where spare parts and tools are made available.
Business model
rep:ar is a business model for sustainable companies and manufacturers, serving as a practical scenario for how the right to repair can be implemented in the future. Companies such as SHIFT, which already produce repair-friendly products, could use rep:ar as an opportunity to expand their community network.