The evolution of virtual reality and its industrial applications

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Inmov

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12 June, 2024

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When talking about Virtual Reality (VR), many of us may remember science fiction movies like Harry Potter or Star Wars. However, the truth is that nowadays it is a technology fully integrated in our daily lives. Video games, medicine, education, events... Virtual reality is here to stay. But what exactly does it consist of?

"We define virtual reality as: An environment of simulated scenes and objects that appear real. The most common use refers to an environment generated through computer technology, which creates the sensation of immersion for the user. This environment is viewed by the user through a device known as virtual reality goggles or a headset. It may be accompanied by other devices, such as gloves or special suits, which allow for greater interaction with the environment and the perception of different stimuli that enhance the sensation of reality."

This concept, which may seem extremely futuristic, has roots that go back further than one might imagine. In fact, it is believed that one of the earliest examples of Virtual Reality was the Sensorama, a machine with a built-in seat that showed 3D movies, emitted aromas and generated vibrations to create an immersive experience. This invention dates back to the mid-1950s, proving that the idea of virtual reality is not as recent as one might think. Since then, advances in technology and software have been continuous, leading to significant improvements in both devices and interface design.

But why is it so relevant in 2024? Well... Virtual reality is no longer limited to the world of video games and entertainment. Today, the uses of virtual reality in business are diverse, from training and marketing to design and shopping experiences.

Is it difficult to incorporate virtual reality? What kind of technology is needed?

To enable Virtual Reality (VR), a typical system includes essential components such as virtual reality glasses or headsets for image output, a processor embedded in the display for operation, position sensors to track the user's movements, and software to manage execution and image processing. Beyond these core elements, VR technology can incorporate additional sensors or peripherals for enhanced functionality, such as audio systems, long-range sensors for spatial tracking, handheld controllers for input, simulators for realistic motion replication, and treadmills for mobility in confined spaces. Although the core technology is based on standard components such as those found in smartphones, it offers adaptability to cover diverse scenarios and applications (EDS, 2021).

Now that we know a little more about VR, is it worth incorporating it into a small business?

As long as the right concept is in place. In fact, one of its most impactful areas lies in marketing for small businesses. Virtual reality systems offer a new way to engage customers through immersive experiences in a virtual environment. From previewing a house before it is built to exploring a factory before investing, from virtual tours to facility tours, VR technology offers customers and any small business the opportunity to integrate immersive experiences into their business strategy. Digital transformation presents a unique growth opportunity that can be adapted to any business model - why not yours?

How does it help in the industrial sector? Within the industrial sector, this technology has also started to be used in a variety of tasks. For example, an increasing number of companies are using VR to improve safety conditions in work environments or to create new products. It is used to improve safety and efficiency. For example, automakers use VR to enable employees to explore the interior of a car without actually having to be there. This helps them identify potential problems.

As more companies look to leverage this technology (VR), VR hardware and software revenues will increase by 587% to $5.5 billion in 2023, up from $800 million in 2018. Notes Business Insider Intelligence in its report.

Meanwhile, in its report 'Learning through virtual reality', the consulting firm Deloitte notes that "studies indicate that the adoption of virtual reality has increased significantly in recent years and is expected to grow further in several domains in the coming years."

Did you know that virtual reality is also used in training, marketing and design? When it comes to training or education, VR allows employees to train for difficult tasks in a safe environment, without any real risk. In addition, VR training has provided companies with more flexibility in their schedules and training spaces.

In marketing, virtual reality offers immersive experiences that engage customers on a deeper level. Brands can create virtual showrooms, product demonstrations or interactive experiences that allow consumers to explore products or services in a realistic environment. This innovative approach not only captivates audiences, but also enhances brand recognition and encourages customer engagement.

VR can also help customers get a better idea of a product's appearance and functionality. This has allowed architects and industrial designers to showcase their work without the need to materialize it.

Did you know that it is also used in medicine? Virtual reality has long been used in the medical field, particularly in training. Surgeons now use it to practice surgeries before performing them on patients, minimizing errors. Recent technological advances have efficiently integrated VR environments into medicine, enabling everything from virtual surgical practices that actually lead to motor learning to reducing the effects of Parkinson's disease in patients. In addition, VR is used to help people with anxiety disorders and phobias, recreating traumatic experiences so that individuals can work on coping mechanisms.

How is virtual reality being used in retail and real estate? Retailers are increasingly using virtual reality to offer shoppers an immersive experience that allows them to "try on" products from the comfort of their homes. Specifically, this technology can be used to personalize the consumer shopping experience and increase customer loyalty. In addition, virtual reality can help retailers reduce returns and increase sales. Virtual reality can be used to view a property before buying it. This is possible through the use of VR headsets and goggles. With this, a person can tour the property from the comfort of their home. Another use of virtual reality in real estate is in construction planning. This involves creating a 3D model of the property that can be viewed from any angle.

VR in tourism: As you may already know, the tourism industry has been one of the biggest investors in this type of technology. For example, Thailand offered complex guided tours to the global market through the country's most important tourist attractions with high quality 360° images.

In the culinary industry, some brands offer virtual reality services to take customers to virtual environments around the world, depending on the type of food chosen. All of these stimuli easily attract customers who are constantly looking for new experiences.

What about the creation of events? At Inmov we implement VR as part of our strategy. Virtual reality is revolutionizing event creation by providing immersive experiences for participants. Event organizers can use VR to showcase venues, provide virtual tours and create interactive experiences for attendees. In addition, VR can be used to simulate event setups, allowing organizers to visualize and plan every detail before the actual event. This technology increases engagement and excitement among participants, making events more memorable and impactful.

In summary, the advantages of virtual reality in industry are diverse and significant. First, it improves employee training and development by providing realistic simulations in complex and hazardous environments, leading to greater efficiency and safety on the job. In addition, virtual reality optimizes design and prototyping by enabling interactive and accurate visualization of projects in industries such as architecture, engineering and manufacturing, reducing costs and shortening development cycles. In marketing, the immersive experiences offered by virtual reality strengthen customer engagement, improve decision making and increase brand loyalty. In addition, virtual reality facilitates effective remote collaboration, allowing teams to work on joint projects regardless of their physical location, streamlining communication and problem solving. Finally, this technology contributes to process optimization and operational efficiency in various industries.

At InmovWe also leverage virtual reality in our marketing strategies to offer our customers unique and immersive experiences.