Archives des virtual reality - Audace Digital Learning

UIMM – Electromob Simulator

The rise of battery gigafactories in France is creating a growing demand for highly qualified profiles in various technical fields. To address this need and highlight the opportunities in the sector, the UIMM (The Union of Industries and Metallurgical Trades) turned to Audace to develop an immersive virtual reality experience. This innovative tool aims to attract new talent and spark interest, particularly during trade shows. Designed with the OpenXR standard, the application is compatible with the leading VR headsets on the market and combines playful learning and innovation to unveil the future of the automotive industry.

DEVICE

The VR simulation developed by Audace consists of two complementary applications:

Sector Discovery: The first application offers users an immersion into the world of automotive through virtual tours of factories, workshops, and assembly lines, enhanced with employee testimonials to provide an overview of the sector’s professions.
Serious Game: The second application invites participants to embody a character in a futuristic industrial environment, reminiscent of a hero like Batman. In a secret underground base, users must complete professional missions, handle objects, use personal protective equipment (PPE), and solve technical problems.

The missions take place in a central emblematic location, the Cell Center, where users can choose between a “linear story” mode or free exploration. Among the activities offered: managing an Electromobile 4.0 and conducting risk inspections in a workshop. The technical challenges and mini-games are designed to reflect the realities of work in a gigafactory, immersing users in the heart of the production processes.

Technology

Developed using Unity and compatible with the Meta Quest 3, these applications use the OpenXR standard to ensure compatibility with other VR headsets, thereby enhancing their accessibility.

OBJECTIVE

The goal of this project is to allow a wide audience to discover the professions in the automotive industry, particularly those in battery gigafactories, in order to spark vocations in a sector undergoing significant transformation.

TARGET

The system is aimed at the general public, especially employees on standby or undergoing career transitions, as well as job seekers, during professional trade shows organized by the UIMM.

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Workshop PICO: The 2024 Innovations in VR and Mixed Reality.

On September 18th, Emile, one of our lead developers, had the opportunity to participate in a workshop organized by MATTS DIGITAL, focused on the latest innovations from PICO, a key player in the virtual reality (VR) headset market. This day allowed us to explore PICO’s ambitions for 2024 and the products that will shape the industry.

PICO, an expanding player

Since its arrival on the European market in 2017 with the PICO Neo and Goblin models, PICO has continuously innovated, launching seven models in just six years, including the Neo 2 (2019) and Neo 3 Pro (2021). Today, the brand has established itself as one of the three leading VR headset manufacturers in the world, with particular expertise in standalone headsets.

PICO primarily targets the B2B market, particularly in the sectors of education, industry, and healthcare. With headsets offering both 3DoF (three degrees of freedom) and 6DoF (six degrees of freedom) experiences, the brand caters to users seeking more immersive interactions in virtual environments. The 6DoF, for example, allows for full movement in space, while the 3DoF restricts interaction to head rotation.

One of PICO’s strategic ambitions is to move from the proof of concept (POC) stage to large-scale deployments. This includes managing fleets of headsets for businesses, a crucial aspect for organizations looking to integrate VR into their processes on a large scale. Among PICO’s competitive advantages are the absence of personal data collection, the ability to use headsets without needing to create a user account, and the option to customize headsets on demand.

PICO 4 Ultra: performance at its peak.

During the workshop, PICO unveiled its latest model, the PICO 4 Ultra, designed to compete directly with Meta’s Quest 3. Equipped with a Qualcomm Snapdragon XR2 processor, 12 GB of RAM, and 256 GB of storage, this headset boasts impressive technical specifications. It is compatible with OpenXR, a standard that facilitates the development of cross-headset applications, and supports Wi-Fi 7 for ultra-fast connectivity. With integrated mixed reality features (access to the front camera, hand tracking, etc.), the PICO 4 Ultra provides a high-quality immersive experience.

Compared to the Quest 3, the PICO 4 Ultra stands out with greater memory, a better front camera, a larger screen, and extended battery life. Although its price is higher (€695 compared to €450 for the Quest 3), it includes all the necessary features without additional costs, making it a turnkey solution for businesses and minimizing barriers to adoption.

PICO 4 Tracker: innovation in motion

Among the other new features unveiled, the PICO 4 Tracker particularly caught attention. This motion sensor, weighing only 14g, is compatible with all PICO headsets. With a battery life of 25 hours and calibration in under 10 seconds, it offers superior performance compared to its direct competitor, the HTC Ultimate Tracker. Priced competitively at €89 per pair (compared to €239 for the HTC model), this tracker could quickly establish itself in the market.

Software solutions tailored to the needs of businesses.

In addition to hardware, PICO provides software solutions designed to optimize the use of its headsets. One of these solutions allows users to scan and share environments in mixed reality for multiplayer applications (LBE – Location Based Entertainment). Although this feature requires a server or cable for sharing, it opens up numerous possibilities for businesses looking to create immersive collaborative experiences.

The PICO Business Suite offers comprehensive tools for managing a fleet of headsets locally. Content synchronization, kiosk mode, remote communication: everything is designed to simplify the management of multiple headsets in professional contexts such as training or presentations. PICO also announced the upcoming launch at the end of the year of the Business Device Manager, a solution similar to ArborXR, allowing for remote management of headset updates and commands.

The PICO 4: a major asset for VR and mixed reality.

The PICO 4 stands out in both virtual reality and mixed reality. In VR, it delivers superior performance thanks to its Qualcomm Snapdragon XR2 processor and 128 GB of memory. These features make it an ideal tool for intensive applications such as training, simulation, and virtual collaboration. The comfort and ergonomics of the headset, with optimized weight distribution, allow for long immersive sessions without discomfort.

In mixed reality, the high-resolution front camera of the PICO 4 enables seamless integration of virtual elements into the real world. This feature is particularly suited for sectors like architecture, where 3D plans can be overlaid on real environments, or maintenance, where technicians can follow instructions in real-time. Thanks to the OpenXR standard, applications developed for the PICO 4 are compatible with a wide range of headsets, making this model particularly attractive for businesses.

Conclusion

This workshop confirmed that PICO continues to establish itself as a leader in the virtual reality market, with a strong B2B focus. Their solutions, both hardware and software, meet the specific needs of companies looking to deploy VR and mixed reality on a large scale. With products like the PICO 4 Ultra and the PICO 4 Tracker, the brand is positioning itself as a key player to watch in the coming years.

immersive learning mixed reality virtual reality

Mixed Reality vs Virtual Reality in Training: What Additional Potential?

In the context of training, Virtual Reality (VR) offers fully immersive experiences by plunging learners into simulated environments. Mixed Reality (MR), which combines virtual elements with the real world, takes this a step further. By adding interactions between the virtual and the real, MR provides new perspectives for more effective, collaborative, and immediately applicable training. With the arrival of new headsets, such as those from Meta and Pico, this technology has also become very financially accessible, facilitating its adoption in the professional environment.

Interaction with the real environment: a learning experience rooted in reality.

Unlike VR, which isolates the learner in a completely virtual world, MR allows for the integration of digital elements within the real environment. The learner can still see, hear, and interact with their physical surroundings while receiving additional information through virtual elements.

In the field of training, this translates into situations where a learner can use real tools while following instructions displayed in mixed reality. For example, a trainee electrician can manipulate a real distribution board while seeing virtual visual cues appear regarding the various steps to follow or safety points to check. This continuity between the virtual and the real allows for better skill acquisition, as the learner is in direct contact with the objects they will use in their professional daily life.

Collaborating in real-time on training tasks.

One of the main advantages of mixed reality (MR) over virtual reality (VR) is the ability for multiple users to interact together on the same virtual object while remaining grounded in their physical environment. This enables a seamless collaborative approach.

Let’s take the example of training in industrial maintenance. Multiple technicians can be in the same room and simultaneously observe a virtual model of the machine they are learning to repair. Each technician can propose actions, test procedures, or discuss solutions to be adopted while seeing the adjustments made in real time. This type of collaboration, enhanced by mixed reality (MR), allows learners to work together effectively and interactively, sharing a common object of study.

Using physical objects while integrating virtual data

One of the aspects that fundamentally differentiates mixed reality (MR) from virtual reality (VR) is the ability to interact with physical objects while receiving virtual data. In MR, the learner can more easily use real tools or equipment while being guided by real-time virtual information.

For example, during an automotive maintenance training session, a learner can manipulate a real engine while seeing virtual information projected onto the various parts. This information can include assembly instructions, technical diagrams, or specific points of attention. This allows for a smooth integration of theory and practice, providing training that is both realistic and instructive.

Remote assistance: the expert at your fingertips.

Another major advantage of mixed reality is the ability to integrate real-time remote assistance from an expert. With mixed reality, a trainer or expert can monitor the learner’s actions live and provide precise guidance without being physically present.

For example, in an industrial equipment maintenance training, a remote expert can observe, through a video stream, what the learner sees through their mixed reality glasses. They can then directly annotate the image perceived by the learner, point out specific areas of the machine, or provide verbal and visual instructions to correct an error or guide the learner through a complex procedure. This ability to receive personalized assistance in real-time without being on-site is a significant advantage for training, especially when qualified human resources are limited.

Enhancing immersion while staying connected to the real world.

Unlike VR, where the user is completely disconnected from their physical environment, mixed reality maintains a connection to it, which is essential in certain training scenarios where interaction with real equipment or colleagues is necessary.

In a fire safety training scenario, for example, the learner can see virtual flames appearing in a real physical environment while having access to guidance on the actions to take, risks to avoid, or the proper use of a fire extinguisher. Learning occurs in complete immersion, but within an environment that remains grounded in the learner’s professional reality, providing a better transition to real-world situations.

Real-time feedback for continuous adaptation.

Mixed reality (MR) also allows for immediate and contextual feedback. During training, learners can receive advice, alerts, or corrections in real-time, directly integrated into their environment. This enhances hands-on learning by helping learners correct their actions without interrupting their workflow.

Take the case of a welding training: if the learner makes a technical mistake, mixed reality (MR) can instantly display corrective indications directly on the piece being worked on, such as guide lines or messages indicating poorly welded areas. This immediate feedback, based on real actions, helps reinforce learning through experience.

By allowing simultaneous interaction with real and virtual objects, mixed reality (MR) not only anchors learning in the reality of the work environment but also enhances collaboration and provides real-time remote assistance. For training that requires handling real equipment or facilitating exchanges between teams, MR emerges as a flexible, realistic, and immediately applicable technology.

immersive learning mixed reality virtual reality

Ineris – VR Training for ATEX Risks

Explosive atmospheres (ATEX) represent a major risk in many industrial sectors where mixtures of flammable gases, vapors, or dust can cause explosions. Regulations require a thorough risk assessment and the use of appropriate equipment to prevent these dangers.

Specializing in the prevention of industrial and environmental risks, Ineris (National Institute for Industrial Environment and Risks) develops tools, training, and certifications that help industries comply with regulations and adopt safe practices. Ineris offers comprehensive ATEX training, including specialized modules on risk assessment (ATEX zoning) and equipment management.

The Ism-ATEX certification training, recognized in France and internationally, is the only certification course in this field. In 2019, an e-learning module was developed to make access to this training more flexible and modern.

In a bid for innovation and to strengthen its position as a leader, Ineris introduced a virtual reality simulator (developed by Audace) that includes two immersive scenarios. These scenarios provide realistic situations and allow for the application of essential safety measures.

DEVICE

Virtual reality simulator consisting of two scenarios:

The first scenario involves a technical intervention on an ATEX pump set and the preparation of work in a hazardous area. The learner is faced with a gas leak that they must stop as quickly as possible to avoid an explosion.
In the second scenario, the learner must perform first-level maintenance operations (inspection, cleaning, and replacement of parts) and recommission the pump. This scenario, which also takes place in an ATEX zone, includes gas measurements, validations or refusals, triggering the emergency alarm, etc.

TARGET

Any person required to work in an ATEX zone.

OBJECTIVE

Training to intervene in ATEX zones safely.

ATEX Risks immersive learning security simulator virtual reality

Addons that make it easier to create immersive applications

In a world increasingly focused on augmented (AR) and virtual reality (VR), developers are constantly looking for solutions to simplify and accelerate the creation of immersive applications. Photon Engine, with its Photon Fusion and Photon Unity networking (PUN) products, offers tools that facilitate XR development.

Photon Fusion: Optimization of Interactions in Real Time

Photo Fusion is designed to meet the specific requirements of XR applications by providing optimized management of real-time interactions with low latency. Which is vital for maintaining the immersion and fluidity of VR and AR experiences. By simplifying state synchronization, network physics management, and multiple input, Fusion allows developers to focus on creating high-quality content without worrying about technical networking aspects.

Concrete example: in the health field, a simulation can allow surgeons to practice complex procedures in cooperation with other surgeons connected remotely. They can interact with virtual instruments and modeled organs with real-time response, providing an innovative training and collaboration platform.

Photon PUN: integration with Unity for Multi-user Applications

Photon PUN is specifically tailored to Unity, one of the most popular development engines for AR and VR. The integration of PUN in development allows you to benefit from numerous software bricks or addons (complementary modules or extensions, which add additional functionalities to a main program) which facilitate the development of immersive multi-user applications.

Concrete perspectives for development in XR

The future of XR development with tools like those from Photon looks promising. By simplifying the complexity of networks, Photon makes it possible to embark on more ambitious XR projects. For example, creating virtual workspaces where interactions are as natural as in the real world.

These tools facilitate the creation of immersive applications, allowing businesses and educators to develop innovative solutions that not only improve operational and educational processes, but also pave the way for more immersive and engaging user experiences.

Language learning. A 2021 study found that immersion in a VR environment where learners practice the language in real-world contexts not only improves procedural memory but also builds confidence using the language in practical situations.

Military and aeronautical training. VR flight simulators have long been used to train pilots, allowing them to memorize flight procedures without the risks associated with flying a real plane.

Training in technical procedures and gestures. At Bridgestone, a virtual reality tire manufacturing training simulator, produced by Audace, is part of a blended learning course combining theoretical and practical content. Operators deepen their theoretical knowledge of different machine tools via e-learning; then, with this first training completed, they train in technical operations on the virtual twin. Finally, the learner can put their training into practice on a physical twin and practice the different operations by activating, in particular, their muscle memory.

This comprehensive training course made it possible to increase productivity as well as employee safety by reducing security incidents and non-quality problems by 30 to 50%. Furthermore, significant economies of scale have been achieved: the immobilization of material production resources required for training has been reduced by 80% and the immobilization of human resources by 90%.

immersive learning virtual reality VR XR

Impact of immersive learning on procedural memory

Immersive learning, often achieved through technologies such as virtual reality (VR) or augmented reality (AR), represents a revolution in education and professional training. Its impact on the development of procedural memory, which is the ability to remember how to perform certain tasks, is increasingly recognized. This article explores the benefits of immersive learning for procedural memory.

Definition and importance of procedural memory

Procedural memory is a subcategory of long-term memory that concerns the acquisition of motor and cognitive skills. It allows individuals to perform tasks without actively thinking about them, such as driving a car or playing a musical instrument. In an educational and professional context, developing this form of memory can significantly increase efficiency and performance.

Neurological foundations and mechanisms

VR and AR immerse users in interactive environments that intensely stimulate brain regions associated with procedural memory, such as the motor cortex and striatum. Neuroscience studies have used functional magnetic resonance imaging to show that these environments engage the brain in ways similar to real-world physical practice, strengthening motor and cognitive skills through task repetition in a controlled, realistic setting.

Practical applications and case studies

Research from Stanford University showed that surgeons trained via VR simulators performed 29% faster and made 37% fewer errors than those trained via traditional methods. La VR permet de simuler des opérations chirurgicales, offrant une répétition sans risque des procédures.

Language learning

A 2021 study found that immersion in a VR environment where learners practice the language in real-world contexts not only improves procedural memory but also builds confidence using the language in practical situations.

Military and aeronautical training

VR flight simulators have long been used to train pilots, allowing them to memorize flight procedures without the risks associated with flying a real plane.

Training in technical procedures and gestures

At Bridgestone, a virtual reality tire manufacturing training simulator produced by Audace is part of a blended learning course combining theoretical and practical content. Operators deepen their theoretical knowledge of different machine tools via e-learning; then, with this first training completed, they train in technical operations on the virtual twin. Finally, the learner can put their training into practice on a physical twin and practice the different operations by activating, in particular, their muscle memory.

This comprehensive training course made it possible to increase productivity as well as employee safety by reducing security incidents and non-quality problems by 30 to 50%. Furthermore, significant economies of scale have been achieved: the immobilization of material production resources required for training has been reduced by 80% and the immobilization of human resources by 90%.

Benefits and motivation

Beyond efficiency, immersive learning in VR is often more motivating for learners. A study from Ohio University found that student engagement was significantly higher during VR learning compared to traditional methods. Total immersion helps maintain concentration, reducing distractions and increasing information retention

Immersive learning is therefore a powerful tool for the development of procedural memory, providing more engaging, effective and safe learning methods. As technology continues to evolve, it is likely that its use will become even more widespread, transforming traditional methods of education and job training.

immersive learning virtual reality VR XR

Industry: 7 key skills mastered thanks to immersive training

In an environment where innovation and competitiveness are essential, rapid and effective training of your employees is a major asset. Immersive technologies offer a superior learning method to traditional techniques.
For nearly 25 years, Audace has been at the forefront of Immersive Learning, supporting big names in the industry in the deployment of innovative and efficient immersive solutions.

In this webinar organized in partnership with France Immersive Learning, Jérôme Poulain, Associate Director of Audace and Yann Leurent, VR Product Manager, will share in-depth insights on the specific skills that immersive training can strengthen in your employees.

You will also explore case studies showing how industrial leaders have optimized the performance of their teams using this technology.

Whether you are an HR professional, training manager or operations manager, this webinar is designed to give you the tools and knowledge you need to transform training in your business and unlock the full potential of your employees.

Fill out this form to receive the webinar.

immersive learning virtual reality VR webinar XR

ORANO – MANUT VR Simulator

The Manut VR application designed for Orano DS is a virtual reality training simulator dedicated to blocking, securing, and slinging loads related to handling activities in a nuclear environment.

In this virtual reality training, the operator must place packages of various shapes and capacities into containers while avoiding several pitfalls, such as incorrect sling labeling, improperly positioned or damaged slings or hooks, and more. In the event of non-compliance of the actions carried out, the learner can visualize the consequences of their choices (accidents, deterioration of equipment, etc.).

TARGETS

Handling technicians working on a nuclear site.

OBJECTIVES

Allow first responders to access information relating to good practices to be implemented during interventions requiring bracing or securing loads or securing a lift;
Allow experienced people to reintegrate methodological developments.

Accompanied by a trainer, the learner can practice various scenarios such as:

Loading a scaffolding rack with blocking onto a rolling cart.
Loading and lifting a container
Loading vacuum cleaner and hose racks into a truck
Loading materials onto a flatbed trailer
Loading measuring boxes into a truck
Slinging

In order to allow immersion close to reality, the different 3D models, the character avatar as well as the environments are reproduced with a high level of realism.

handling immersive learning security simulator virtual reality