Extended Reality to Improve Technical Abilities

The traditional training method usually involves a classroom with a video, a teacher, and perhaps a real-life situation to learn from. But with Extended Reality (XR) technologies making waves, training methods are evolving too. In our lab, we’ve developed an innovative solution: CraneVR!

CraneVR is a Virtual Reality (VR) simulator designed for operating an overhead crane. The best part? It offers various exercises to practice and improve your crane-driving skills on a challenging circuit, moving loads from one point to another. But it’s not just about completing tasks; you also need to follow safety instructions to do it perfectly!

CraneVR was developed to bridge the gap between trainers and trainees, particularly in managing risk. It’s well-known that practice makes perfect, but how can a trainee practice when their coworkers are performing real tasks in the factory? The risk factor is high! This is where an XR simulator like CraneVR becomes invaluable.

Our paper, “Towards Learner Performance Evaluation in iVR Learning Environments Using Eye-Tracking and Machine-Learning,” showcases the effectiveness of CraneVR. In our study, 63 participants completed 11 exercises over three days, using CraneVR in a controlled environment. The results were promising: participants felt more confident and skilled, made fewer errors, and completed the circuit faster with each session

Now, no one can say Extended Reality is useless! XR offers numerous advantages over traditional training methods in industries. It allows for the simulation of realistic experiences, enabling trainees to practice, become familiar with specific situations, and improve their collaboration and behavior with coworkers. It even helps predict performance! This is crucial for companies aiming to minimize risk and provide realistic training scenarios for their employees.

Another project in our lab is the Forklift Simulator for VR, which follows the same concept but uses a forklift instead of a crane.

How about you? Have you tried any of these applications? Let us know in the comments!

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