Virtual reality (VR) is among the latest technology that is being increasingly adopted in the manufacturing industry. Although VR has been around for some time now, manufacturers are just starting to implement and explore the possibilities of VR in the manufacturing sector.
Unbelievably realistic scenarios
The biggest advantage of VR in manufacturing is that it can create virtual, immersive environments on any scale and magnitude, encompassing the minutest details. The experience is amazingly realistic that it is hard to distinguish a virtual manufacturing unit from a real one.
The virtual version features all sounds, sensations, and ambiance of a real manufacturing plant. Further, you can also choose to infuse an element of randomness that is typical of any manufacturing unit. This virtual platform can then be used for a wide array of purposes, including training, familiarization with the floor plan, inspecting machinery, evaluating safety aspects, etc.
Advantages for all
VR in manufacturing offers a host of advantages for everyone involved. Here is a look into how it benefits manufacturers, supervisors, workers, trainees, and inspectors.
Manufacturers
For manufacturers, VR is unmatched in the way it streamlines production processes, ensures proper handling of complex machinery, and cuts down unnecessary expenses related to product design, training, and machinery inspection.
Supervisors
Supervisors in manufacturing units are happy with how VR helps keep the assembly line moving without disruptions, maintains a safe working environment for everyone, and ensures that each worker is adequately trained and experienced to handle their roles.
Workers
VR offers workers ample opportunities to familiarize themselves with their specific roles in the production process. This makes them less stressed and more confident about their job. VR in manufacturing can also be utilized for skill development sessions to update workers on what they need to watch out for while working.
Trainees
It is not practical to expose trainees to a hazardous working environment in manufacturing plants amidst heavy machines, high noise levels, constantly moving assembly lines, high-powered electrical lines, and crisscrossing cables. VR can recreate virtual versions of such settings in which trainees can safely practice their skills. This way, the experience gained will be immense while the risk factor will be zero.
Industrial equipment inspectors
Industrial equipment inspection using traditional methods can incur huge costs. Experts from other countries may have to visit your plant to inspect machinery or evaluate malfunctions. Manufacturers must pay airfares, hotel bills, and other expenses and keep waiting for an available slot. This may affect the production cycle adversely.
With VR, experts can virtually inspect the machines. A VR video of the machine is all that the expert needs to inspect it and suggest necessary repairs.
Final word
According to industry experts, investing in VR is a great way to ensure a head start in the manufacturing industry. As processes, technologies, machines, training procedures, and operational mechanisms in manufacturing become more advanced and complex, so does the risk factor attached to each. VR in manufacturing can be customized to predict and simulate these risks in advance so that everyone can be prepared to respond appropriately.
VR also offers benefits like presenting product prototypes to experts in remote locations or showcasing virtual versions of new machines at business exhibitions. As more people adopt VR technologies, its applications are also set to touch new heights in the coming years. For more information visit: https://www.xrguru.com/virtual-reality-in-manufacturing
