Training process for operators in virtual reality
Training in industry today is often based on physical models of products and production environment that the operator can use for training. These models are often expensive and inflexible. Instead, more and more virtual models of production are starting to be introduced. A virtual model of production is a data simulated environment that can be modified and used all the time.
In order to be competitive in today's market, the manufacturing industry must be able to manufacture several product variants on the same production line. Mixed-model assembly means creating a core product but adding changes during assembly. This means that the company can offer a product that meets the customer's personal wishes. The disadvantage of mixed model assembly is that it generates more complex and varied data for the operators. The pressure on the operators is increasing as they must keep track of a lot of information. To meet this problem in the industries today, effective training programs are important. Training in industry today is often based on physical models of product and production environment that the operator can train in. These models are often expensive and inflexible. Instead, more and more virtual models of production are starting to be introduced. A virtual model of production is a data simulated environment that can be modified and used all the time.
The next step in the training is to base the training programs for operators on virtual reality. Virtual reality is a computer technology that can simulate real-world environments. Using virtual reality, operators can be trained independently of physical production environments. Therefore, costs for physical models and disruption of production can be avoided. The industry today mainly looks at two aspects of a training system: Training and investment. Most of the design and implementation of virtual reality-based learning focuses on the technical aspects. However, they lack well-defined theories linked to learning and pedagogy.
This project has therefore developed a conceptual flow for a process in operator training that combines theories of learning with a virtual environment and considers the requirements of production. The stream consists of a mainstream with a number of sub-streams. The training is divided into four levels. The safety level introduces the operator to all safety risks that exist in the assembly to be performed. This can, for example, be about how to keep a tool to avoid a pinch risk. The operator first receives a review of the step and then can test himself for the task. Based on the operator's performance, a grade is given that determines if the next level is unlocked. Once the operator has passed the Safety level, the Tutorial level can be started. Here, the idea is that all assembly steps are introduced and explained. After the review, the operator can answer simple questions about the steps, for example, "Which tool was used?". Based on these questions, a grade is given that determines whether the level is approved or not.
Once the Tutorial Level is approved, the Learning Level can begin. At the learning level, the operator can begin to interact more in the assembly by performing all tasks. During assembly, operators can ask for help and ask for more instructions if something feels unclear. The result of the training determines whether the operator is ready to move on to the next level or if something needs to be repeated. The last level is called Training-level and strives to emulate real production as much as possible. Here the operator performs all tasks but cannot ask for more information than the one that is also available on the correct production line. It is also possible to introduce disturbances that occur in a real production environment, for example, material shortages or machine failures. This gives the operator the opportunity to learn how to handle the stressful interruptions that occur in production. When the operator is approved at the Training level, a certification is created for the specific station.
The four levels of training are based on incremental learning for the operator to obtain the best conditions for learning. By dividing the process into several steps, the operator is not overwhelmed by the large amount of information presented. Virtual training today cannot fully replace traditional training but can be an important complement to reducing the psychological stress on operators during training.
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