Feature

The future of VR in the engineering space

In recent years, augmented reality (AR) has seen rapid growth and increased adoption within the industrial space.

01/04/2019 14:08:33

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The AR sector is predicted to be worth over £120 billion by 2020, with a large chunk of this growth coming from industrial applications such as manufacturing, electronics design and engineering.

The sheer number
of virtual and augmented reality devices present in exhibitor booths at trade shows are a clear indicator of this, with AR now widely seen across industrial sectors such as complex assembly, maintenance of manufacturing equipment, expert
support, quality support, and automation – to name just a few.

AR clearly has massive revenue potential in this space – but what about its counterpart, virtual reality (VR)? While not yet seeing the same
level of industrial application as augmented reality, VR is already starting to find a number of real-life use cases in industry.

Take, for example, engineering and design. Here, it can unlock many benefits – such as
providing a new perspective on CAD models. Already brands such as AutoDesk are incorporating virtual reality into their software platforms, allowing designers to develop and preview products in immersive 3D.

Read the full article in the April issue of DPA

Written By Sophia Bell

Sophia Bell is the Group Editor of DPA, Connectivity, and PBSI. She joined the team in 2020 as Assistant Editor after achieving a First-Class Honours BA in English Literature and Film Studies from the University of East Anglia. In her current role, she leads the editorial strategy, driving digital growth and ensuring each title continues to deliver trusted, relevant insight for engineering and manufacturing professionals.