Portable VR Welding Simulator

Abstract

In many industries, there is a continuous high demand for skilled welders. Practical training in welding is cost- and time-intensive. To reduce this problem, VR welding simulators have been developed in recent years. They vary in terms of portability, hardware and software components, and functionalities. In this paper, a VR simulator to support practical training in MIG/MAG welding, as a highly portable and affordable solution, is presented. Its only hardware components are an off-the-shelf mobile VR set, a welding torch, and welding coupons that are manufactured using the FDM 3D printing method. The software part is accessed and used via an Internet browser. An important feature of the simulator is also the possibility to differ immersion in the working environment while carrying out virtual welding, which makes the solution also usable for users prone to cybersickness. The VR welding simulator was refined based on feedback obtained during pilot tests. The test participants found it a useful aid for welders’ training, which justifies further work on its development and integration into the teaching of welding in educational and training units.