Industry 4.0 (I4.0), fourth Industrial revolution is happening with the assistance of technologies. Smart factories are part of I4.0where machines are augmented with web connectivity and connected to a system that can visualise the entire production chain. Market requirement, design, development, validation, pilot production, planning, series production, quality control, logistics data management and aftersales support will gain momentum in I4.0. Training and skill development is a major focus in Industry to improve competitiveness, productivity, quality and safety. This include soft skills, hard skills and knowledge training.
Digitalisation is one of the most key technique in industry 4.0. AR / VR are two major technologies used for industry simulation. By 2022, industry sector is expected to spend 27% on AR/VR solutions.
Simulation in Training
Simulation technology is used to create and enhance an imaginary reality for gaming, entertainment, and play. It can enhance training for real life environments by creating a simulation of reality where people can practice beforehand. Flight, welding, driving are a few examples of practical training where AR/VR simulation techniques are used.
The conventionaltraining methods were generally followed across the industry sectors which has following challenges
- Non-uniform training methods
- More dependent on trainer skills and knowledge
- Wastages of consumables
- More preparation time and thereby less practicing time
- Difficult and time consuming to map skill gap Vs quality defects
- A wrong practice is almost impossible to revert
Modernisation in dexterity skills
The advancement in technology is utilised for skill training to overcome the challenges briefed above.
Simulation implies an imitation of a real-life process, usually via a computer or other technological device, to provide a lifelike experience. This has proven to be a reliable and successful method of training in thousands of industries worldwide. They can be used both to allow specialisation in a certain area, and to educate working individuals of the sector as a whole.Simulation methods are getting more acceptance as it makes the learning more entertaining, systematic and independent.
Use of simulation methods in welding training has got following advantages
- Live feedback
- Self-learning
- Very less time for job preparation and more time for practice
- Independent of trainer’s skills
- Tracking of practice sessions
- Fast switching between welding processes, materials, wire diameters, mechanical parameters and compositions
- Replay of the practice sessions
- Complex work pieces can be practiced at difficult positions and orientations
