Virtual Reality Training in Higher Education: Interactive Training for Quality Methods in Mechanical Engineering 

August 23, 2024

Virtual Reality Training Case Study Highlights

Company

A Public Research University

Industry

Mechanical Engineering

Region

Germany

Customer

The Production Systems department of a public research university focuses on modern production research, covering areas such as Production Management, Production Automation, and Industrial Robotics. It operates a Learning and Research Factory (LRF) used for student education and also offers extensive training and services for industrial employees.

Challenge

Simulating Real-World Production Environments for Effective Learning

The Department needed to develop a training program that could work within the framework of their research project. The training program needed to be able to individually address learners and adapt to their individual pace and provide support where needed.

Teaching quality methods within mechanical engineering can involve complicated content and situations, and the training program needed to be easy to use and maintain the trainee’s attention. The training environment also needed to simulate a real-world production environment and allow users to navigate the training scenario independently.

Solution

Integrating Real-World Scenarios into Virtual Reality Training Programs

The UReality VR training system built for the University Department is designed to provide flexible and location-independent training for quality methods in the production environment.

The VR training system included the following key features:

  • Oculus Quest 2: The VR training program utilizes Oculus Quest 2 headsets, which allows for an immersive and interactive learning experience.
  • CAD Import: The system supports CAD imports, enabling the integration of detailed and accurate models into the training scenarios.
  • Individual Application: VR training can be tailored to individual learners, allowing them to progress at their own pace and focus on areas where they need additional support.

The VR training system allows both students and educators to:

  • Train Independent of Location and Time: Learners can access the training content from anywhere and at any time, making it convenient for those with busy schedules.
  • Create an Efficient Knowledge Transfer: The VR training creates realistic and engaging scenarios that mirror real-world production environments making learning fun and engaging.

Results

Enhanced Engagement through Realistic VR Training Scenarios

The UReality VR training program has proven to be an accessible training solution, allowing learners to access the training content at any time and from anywhere. The VR training program has also facilitated efficient knowledge transfer by providing realistic and engaging scenarios that mirror real-world production environments.

The VR training program has supported sustainable education by allowing learners to gain practical experience in a virtual setting, reducing the need for physical resources and minimizing the environmental impact. The UReality VR training program has been particularly beneficial for hybrid education for Six Sigma training. The early involvement of learners has led to the faster acceptance of VR training technology, enabling realistic and sustainable learning experiences.

“VR training allows students to have fun while learning, increases motivation and creates a sustainable knowledge transfer of complex topics like teaching quality methods.”

Chair of Production Systems

Production Systems Department of a public research university

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Additional Resources