Vom Papier zur Virtual Reality: Die Chancen und Risiken von Virtual Reality in der Gestaltung von Montagearbeitsplätzen

Abstract

In the context of the ongoing digitalization of production processes, the use of immersive technologies is gaining importance, particularly in workstation design within assembly environments. Against this backdrop, it is necessary to examine whether, and to what extent, immersive technologies offer added value compared to conventional planning methods. The aim of this master’s thesis is, therefore, to identify the key opportunities and risks associated with the use of Virtual Reality (VR) in comparison to traditional planning techniques. The focus lies specifically on the detection of planning errors and the optimization of ergonomic aspects. To achieve this objective, a systematic literature review is first conducted to assess current state of research in the fields of VR, factory planning and workstation design. Based on this review, the main potential advantages such as improved planning quality, cost reduction, increased efficiency and enhancements in ergonomics and workplace design are identified. At the same time, the primary risks are also considered, particularly those of a technological, health-related, and economic nature. In addition to the literature review, an empirical study is carried out in which two groups evaluate a given assembly workstation for potential improvements. One group analyses the workstation using a conventional 3D visualization while the other group uses an immersive VR environment. The evaluation of the questionnaires completed after the analysis shows that significantly (U= 64; p-value= 0,047) more potential issues were identified within the VR environment. Moreover, VR based planning was subjectively perceived as more realistic and intuitive. The study concludes that VR holds significant potential for improving planning quality, ergonomics, and user involvement in workstation design. For manufacturing companies this can result in tangible practical benefits provided that the associated technological and economic challenges are consciously addressed.

Date of Award	2025
Original language	German (Austria)
Supervisor	Josef Wolfartsberger (Supervisor)