Title: A training methodology based on virtual reality to promote the learning-by-doing approach

Authors: Fabio Grandi; Margherita Peruzzini; Sara Cavallaro; Marcello Pellicciari

Addresses: Department Engineering 'Enzo Ferrari', University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Via Vivarelli 10, 41125, Modena, Italy ' Department Engineering 'Enzo Ferrari', University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Via Vivarelli 10, 41125, Modena, Italy ' Department Engineering 'Enzo Ferrari', University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Via Vivarelli 10, 41125, Modena, Italy ' Department Sciences and Methods for Engineering, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Via Amendola 2, 42122, Reggio Emilia, Italy

Abstract: Virtual reality (VR) training allows companies to train their workforce thanks to virtually simulated environments, leveraging the skills of people before the system production with the final aim to reduce the downtime of productive equipment and improve the global factory efficiency. However, the use of VR immersive training is still limited in industry due to the lack of structured methodologies to effectively implement these simulations. This paper deals with the application of VR technologies to create virtual training simulations addressing assembly or maintenance tasks. It suggests a methodology to create an interactive virtual space in which operators can perform predefined tasks in a realistic way, having dedicated instructions to support the learn-by-doing, based on key training features (KTFs). This methodology was applied to an industrial case study concerning some specific tractor assembly phases. Results show that operators generally appreciate this new training process, enabling faster and more intuitive learning.

Keywords: virtual training; virtual factory; virtual reality; virtual assembly; smart factory.

DOI: 10.1504/IJAOM.2021.120513

International Journal of Advanced Operations Management, 2021 Vol.13 No.3, pp.275 - 291

Received: 28 Nov 2020
Accepted: 07 Mar 2021

Published online: 24 Jan 2022 *

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