Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR) is the next step in the world of technology. These technologies will forever transform manufacturing training in every field. The tech allows users to create computer graphics over real space. This can also transport the user to a complete digital yet interactive space.
Research and video games are the main areas using VR and AR. Industries are now considering the uses after the world is forced to work within their four walls. However, VR and AR have a lot more uses. Here are some of the many ways VR and AR will change manufacturing training for good.
Lack of Skilled Labor
The manufacturing industry faces a serious lack of skilled labor and the main reason for that is lack of training. With VR and AR, training rooms can be set up anywhere and trainees can join from anywhere. This will give them hands-on training with virtual equipment. VR and AR together sometimes called XR or extended reality allows a mixture of digital and real-life setup.
Safer Training
If the training is done virtually, there is no risk to the trainees in hazardous or factory training sessions. The trainees are learning first hand but also in a digital environment where there are no repercussions. This allows the trainees to learn stress-free, making the training an educational experience.
Faster Training
Manufacturing training generally starts with large PDFs that need to be studied. This takes time and also gives the student a theoretical understanding. With VR and AR, the student will have the equipment and constant instructions appearing on the screen. The student gets the theory and immediately puts it into practice. This makes learning not just faster but more effective.
Need For Equipment
Equipment needed for VR and AR training is just one device projecting the digital training room. The machinery used in the training is also digitally made. Machinery unavailable will no longer be an excuse. A number of similar training sessions can be conducted simultaneously. This speeds up training by 50 percent.
Boosting Retention
A study done by the University of Maryland showed 90 percent of students followed through an immersive digital training session. However, only 78 percent of students completed a computer and theoretical training session. This shows that students are more inclined to learning when it’s an immersive experience.
This will help companies speed up their training sessions while ensuring trainees do not make mistakes due to poor recall. This in turn will help reduce training costs for the company.
Cheaper Emergency Training
If it wasn’t already clear, VR and AR training sessions will be significantly cheaper than real-life training. The International Air Transport Association is using VR to create real-life emergencies to train their pilots. This helped the association save on damaged aircraft during training.
Walmart is another company that uses VR in its training module. The VR technology is used to prepare the employees in case of threats. The staff is mainly trained to learn what to do during a shooting.
No Disruption
The virtual training session allows trainers to pinpoint potential mistakes made by employees. Manufacturing lines work 24/7 and cannot afford any downtime. Simulating tests for employees will allow trainers to address the problem. This way mistakes are controlled and avoid stalling operations.
The VR and AR technology can also aid trainees covering for employees on sudden leave. The novice workers will be assisted by virtual instructions to perform higher-level tasks. These digital worlds will change the way manufacturing training is conducted. Implementing AR/VR in manufacturing training will take time and investment. However in the long run it increases efficiency and reduces cost. The best way to integrate VR/AR into your business is by starting with a pilot project and making changes depending on employee suggestions.
