Virtual reality

VR allows you to create realistic scenarios for training and testing that have a similar effect on the body as real situations. The effect of virtual reality (VR) is impressive once you have experienced it for yourself. VR experiences can be very realistic and have similar effects on users as real experiences. Particularly interesting is the ability to realistically simulate stressful situations in different contexts and evoke similar physical reactions as in real scenarios.

Van Dammen et al. (2022) conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of stress reactivity in VR They found that VR stress tests are applicable across different populations and can elicit a broad stress response. The stress responses in VR were comparable to those in real-life stress situations. This makes VR a valuable tool for training and research in areas such as education, professional development and stress management.

The implementation time depends heavily on the respective use case. We use an agile approach based on Scrum, which gives you a testable product at the end of each iteration that is continuously developed further. This approach allows you to provide feedback and make adjustments at an early stage.

As VR developments are often more complex than traditional app projects, implementation can take longer. Nevertheless, you benefit from the continuous transparency in the course of the project and the opportunity to actively shape the end product. It is important that you are prepared for a somewhat slower pace, but this is more than compensated for by the quality and innovation of the final product. With a customized VR solution, you position yourself as a pioneer in your industry and benefit from the investment in the long term.

To realize scenarios, we need 3D models of your systems and devices as well as information about how they move. Together, we can create a unique experience for your target group.

Mixed reality applications are suitable for direct use on the store floor. Mixed reality applications offer the possibility of integrating real-time data into the real environment on the store floor, enabling operators to make better decisions. Meta Quest can be used for this. However, unlike the HoloLens 2 Industrial Edition, it does not have UL Class I, Division 2 certification or ISO 14644-1 Class 5-8, which are required for potentially explosive atmospheres in the USA or for cleanroom environments.

On the other hand, the Meta Quest offers a better display of content and costs only a quarter to an eighth of the HoloLens.

A VR headset is a device that is used in IT networks and connects to the Internet. It should therefore be integrated into an OT network in accordance with the usual security measures. It is important that proven security protocols, such as the separation of IT and OT networks, are implemented. However, common protection mechanisms such as VPN and similar security solutions can be used on the Meta Quest.

Changes in requirements are frequent with modern solutions that break new ground. At erminas, we know this from many years of experience. That’s why our software development projects are based on Scrum and the agile corridor concept. This allows us to react flexibly to such changes. What counts for us is the delivered result. With our agile approach, we ensure that your VR solution can be adapted to new requirements at any time so that you remain flexible in the long term.

We chose the MetaQuest because it supports both VR and mixed reality applications and offers an excellent balance between performance and cost. We believe that there will be many more mixed reality applications for our customers in the future. We have therefore evaluated both platforms for our mixed reality applications.

We examined the specifications and programming capabilities of both devices and could not find any significant difference in the capabilities of the MetaQuest and the Apple Vision Pro. While the Apple Vision Pro may offer a better display, it does not offer any significant advantages in terms of interaction with different rooms and the environment. Just out of curiosity, we would like to try out the device and then share our experiences.