08.08.2024 14:02
Research projects, research / knowledge transfer
Note on the use of images: The use of the images for the press release is permitted free of charge provided the source is mentioned. The images may only be used in connection with the content of this press release. If you require the image in higher resolution or have questions about further use, please contact the press office that published it directly.
Project IMPACT-sXR: Lifting loads
| Those:
FHSTP
| Copyright:
FHSTP
| Download
Note on the use of images: The use of the images for the press release is permitted free of charge provided the source is mentioned. The images may only be used in connection with the content of this press release. If you require the image in higher resolution or have questions about further use, please contact the press office that published it directly.
Project IMPACT-sXR: Tunnel construction
| Those:
FHSTP
| Copyright:
FHSTP
| Download
Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR) – often summarized as Mixed Reality (MR) or Extended Reality (XR) – not only expand the possibilities of data visualization, but also enable new forms of collaboration. In a joint project, four universities and more than 20 well-known (industrial) companies investigated how the techniques can be used intuitively to train employees.
“Although they have already come into contact with it, many companies are not clear how they can use such technologies to their advantage, what advantages they have and what potential they can unlock. For this reason, mixed reality is not used or is hardly used in many industries that could benefit from it. In our IMPACT-sXR project, we have found a solution and developed a training and assistance concept that makes it easier for users to intuitively learn new ways of working,” says Thomas Moser, head of the Institute for CreativeMedia/Technologies at St. Pölten University of Applied Sciences and scientific project manager of the IMPACT-sXR project.
The project developed new methods for the use of virtual reality (VR), the computer-assisted extension of the perception of reality, and augmented reality (AR), i.e. environments in which the real and virtual worlds merge. The researchers and companies tested this to train people for activities in assembly and maintenance processes or in quality control, for example.
New forms of cooperation
The project team tested new forms of space-independent collaboration. This includes, for example, two people working in the same VR room but being spatially separated in the real world, or someone receiving remote support from a person who is not on site while servicing a machine.
To do this, teams use real-time 3D information from real-world environments and visualizations of real-time production data that can be interacted with.
The project has also established new XR-supported training and learning methods. “With XR methods, training scenarios that are easier to adapt can be implemented. They increase the measurability of learning success and allow training to be adapted more quickly to changing conditions. The gamification approach can be used to incorporate game-like elements into the teaching of content,” says Moser.
Examples: From industrial assembly to subway construction to company presentation
Almost all companies contributed concrete case studies to the project, which were examined and further developed.
For example, AUVA and the supermarket chain Spar used an avatar to test augmented reality visualizations of ergonomically correct movement sequences when lifting loads. The company Geodata developed new procedures for surveying subway construction sites with Wiener Linien.
Other cases included changing industrial circular saw blades, assembling a compressor control or a motor, and getting to know the company and its products by new employees as part of their training.
Acceptance and sustainability
In the project, the researchers worked with companies and their employees to develop processes to ensure the acceptance of the newly developed technologies and working methods.
The project also investigated the benefits of XR solutions in terms of sustainability, energy and resource efficiency and a possible reduction of the ecological footprint.
Large network and open knowledge
The large network of project partners (23 partners from industry and four universities) covered many use cases and ensured that knowledge about the possible applications of XR technologies was widely disseminated.
The research results obtained were made available to the public, provided they did not affect company-specific data or processes. This means that they are also accessible to companies that were not involved in the project.
The universities involved were the FH Joanneum, the FH Upper Austria, the TU Vienna and the FH St. Pölten as scientific project manager. The project was coordinated by the mechatronics cluster of ecoplus – Lower Austria’s business agency.
Corporate partners were: Geodata Group, Hoerbiger Wien GmbH, Umdasch Group Ventures GmbH, RHI Magnesita GmbH, Palfinger AG, Lenze SE [Deutschland]Otto Bock HealthCare Products GmbH, Wr. Linien GmbH & Co KG, Voestalpine Böhler Welding Group GmbH, ÖBB-Personenverkehr AG, Bosch Rexroth GmbH [Deutschland]ZKW Group GmbH, voestalpine Signaling Zeltweg GmbH, Trotec Laser GmbH, Framag Industrieanlagenbau GmbH, AUVA, Takeda Pharma Ges.mbH, AMS, Swietelsky AG, Siemens AG, Haumberger eU and Inventio GmbH.
Projekt IMPACT-sXR – Industrial Manufacturing Process And Collaboration Tools for sustainable XR
Project page of the FH St. Pölten:
Results from the project (report, PDF)):
###
About the FH St. Pölten – University of Applied Sciences
The St. Pölten University of Applied Sciences offers practice-based and performance-oriented higher education in the areas of media, communication, management, digital technologies, computer science, security, rail technology, health and social affairs. In 6 departments, numerous bachelor’s and master’s degree programs as well as continuing education courses offer almost 4,000 students a future-oriented education. Teaching and research are closely interlinked. As a European University, the St. Pölten University of Applied Sciences leads the European university alliance E³UDRES² (Engaged and Entrepreneurial European University as Driver for European Smart and Sustainable Regions) and works with universities from 9 partner countries on concepts for the university of the future and on the development of smart and sustainable European regions.
Information and inquiries:
Mag. Mark Hammer
Press Officer
Marketing and corporate communications
T: +43/2742/313 228 269
M: +43/676/847 228 269
E: [email protected]
I:
Press release and photos available for download at
General press photos available for download at /press photos-logos
The St. Pölten University of Applied Sciences expressly states that it is the owner of all usage rights of the photographs sent. The recipient of this message may only use the photographs sent in connection with the press release and must name the St. Pölten University of Applied Sciences and the author. Any other use of the photographs sent in is only permitted with the express written consent (an email is sufficient) from the St. Pölten University of Applied Sciences.
Find out more news from us on Twitter and LinkedIn and on other social media channels.