In a groundbreaking development, Amatrol has released the new VR Smart Factory Training system, which will enable instructors to teach more students hands-on smart factory and mechatronics skills in a shorter period of time.
Developed in conjunction with CESMII—The Smart Manufacturing Institute and Texas A&M University, Amatrol’s VR Smart Factory is the digital version of the popular Mechatronics Training System.
VR Smart Factory replicates the real three-cart Mechatronics system in such detail instructors can combine VR Mechatronics with the real physical training system and Amatrol’s eLearning curriculum to create an immersive learning experience that will better prepare users with real hands-on skills relevant to modern industry needs.
Amatrol’s VR Smart Factory shortcuts the learning curve for users. Every user with a licensed VR headset can become familiar with the system’s operation and practice basic adjustments to see how they affect the system’s operation before working on the physical system. VR Smart Factory gives students the freedom to explore the system, experiment with adjustments, and make mistakes without impacting the physical system. They can become comfortable and familiar with the technology and skills as they progress through the curriculum.
Depending on the size of your class, your students may be limited in the amount of time they have to get hands-on with the physical system. VR Smart Factory gives more students access to skills at the same time. The more headsets you have, the more students can interact with the virtual system simultaneously.
Instructors can also expand the number of users learning at any particular time by allowing some users to work on the physical system while others use VR, which replicates the experience of using the real system.
We’ll preface this point by mentioning that virtual reality training can never fully replace real, physical training systems. To be truly prepared for the workforce, students need to build skills on industrial equipment. However…
VR Smart Factory is a great starting point for programs who are still working on securing funds or classroom space for the full Mechatronics system. Students will still get immersed in the industrial technology used in the workforce, and it can be a great starting point to build momentum and support for the program.
Industry is leveraging virtual realty and digital twins for a number of use cases – testing new systems, troubleshooting, even remote technical support. Students who can comfortably navigate VR systems and can transfer VR practice to real-world application will be valuable to their employers.
If you’re interested in seeing how this system could complement your mechatronics training, view the product page or send us an email and we can share more information and pricing.