Virtual Reality

COMMON USES / COMMON PROBLEMS SOLVED 

  • Training in a manufacturing environment that is disruptive or dangerous 
  • Allows operators the ability to experience and evaluate a new shop floor layout or configuration prior to making any expensive moves 
  • Need for consistent training of a skill or task 

 VIRTUAL REALITY COULD BE A GOOD FIT IF:

  • You don’t want to stop equipment to train
  • You don’t have a large space to train
  • You want to ensure your employee can be safe before exposing them to the actual equipment
  • You have many employees that you’d like to cross-train
  • You have remote employees

VIRTUAL REALITY MIGHT NOT BE A GOOD FIT IF

  • You don’t have a specific application in mind
  • The application you have in mind requires complex machinery that is too difficult to render
  • Training is easier or better suited to a real-life environment
  • Precise manipulation or movement is required to accomplish the task

FAQ 

What are the restrictions on this technology?

  • Completely obscures the vision of an operator in favor of the virtual experience
  • Models have to be optimized to run on the hardware platform

Will I need special equipment to operate this technology?  

  • VR HMD is required  
  • Some platforms require a PC and external sensors 

Do I need any special training or certification to operate this technology? If so, what? 

  • An understanding of device navigation is required. Generally, it takes 5 minutes to learn. 

THE FACTORY OF TOMORROW EXPERIENCE

Three trainings using VR goggles: 

  1. How to use calipers for measurement
  2. How to use an industrial sewing machine/ sewing basics
  3. How to setup a CNC machine 

EQUIPMENT IN THE LAB  

The Factory of Tomorrow demonstrates real-world applications in a low volume, high mix environment. Made possible by our partnerships with national, regional, state, and local organizations, The Factory of Tomorrow is here to offer new opportunities for the real-world application of advanced manufacturing technologies.

Integrated technologies demonstrate that Smart Factories and Industry 4.0 advanced technologies are within reach for small and mid-sized manufacturers. Learn more and visit the lab >