Virtual Reality in Transport, Manufacturing and Logistics

The expert group on "Virtual Reality in Transport, Manufacturing and Logistics" is focussed on interactive visualisation techniques for improving the current processes in the areas of transport, manufacturing and logistics. IT tools which are in place today include modelling and simulation techniques as well as 2D- and 3D-visualisation tools. However, these tools are still often isolated tools which serve one distinct purpose. They are not often integrated with the actual business processes which take place in Transport, Manufacturing and Logistics. Furthermore, the degree of visualisation is often only suitable for experts in the area.

For improving the usability of these tools, new techniques for user interface design need to be investigated. Virtual Reality technology is one way of creating such intuitive user interfaces. It allows new levels of immersion and user convenience when interacting with the simulated processes.

The application of Virtual Reality can support the areas of transport, manufacturing and logistics in many ways. It can

1. act as the user interface to the traditional OR tools used in these areas (e.g., by allowing interactive visualisation and experimentation with simulation models of harbour activities or manufacturing processes)
2. provide a learning environment for the education and training of operators (e.g., crane operators in a harbour, machine operators in a factory)
3. provide a way for documenting complex equipment and operation processes.

The persons assembled in the expert group aim at joining their expertise in these research areas. The main objective in this group is to form alliances for common future research projects and to jointly offer services and consulting towards interested industry clients. The expert group will meet at common events which most experts will visit (simulation and visualisation conferences, virtual reality workshops, etc.). Main point of reference and meeting for this group are the annual IFF Science Days.



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