Animmersion UK has taken virtual reality (VR) training to the next level with a major upgrade to its crane simulator - originally developed nearly a decade ago for Sunderland-based manufacturing giant Unipres.

Animmersion UK has taken virtual reality (VR) training to the next level with a major upgrade to its crane simulator - originally developed nearly a decade ago for Sunderland-based manufacturing giant Unipres.

First designed in 2016, the VR crane training simulator is an essential tool for Unipres, a Tier 1 supplier to Nissan, whose 24/7 production line leaves little opportunity for hands-on training. The simulator recreates a highly realistic factory environment, allowing trainees to refine their skills without disrupting operations or compromising safety.

Now, leveraging the latest advancements in VR, the Middlesbrough-based firm has significantly enhanced the system with state-of-the-art visuals and real-world controls to deliver unparalleled realism.

Next-Generation VR Training

The latest upgrade integrates HTC’s cutting-edge VIVE Focus Vision headset, offering higher resolution and an expanded field of view for improved clarity and depth perception - enabling users to judge distances with greater accuracy. Unlike its predecessor, this standalone headset removes cumbersome cables and tethers, providing a more natural and immersive experience.

Additionally, the system features upgraded tracking for smoother, more precise movements that align virtual actions with real-world crane controls. A lightweight, ergonomic design further reduces fatigue, allowing for longer, more effective training sessions.

Thomas Dexmier, Vice President Sales and Marketing, EMEA, at HTC VIVE, commented:

“The manufacturing sector has a rich history of early technology adoption, and XR is no exception. Industrial training is a powerful use case for immersive technology. It provides skilled workers with a safe, visually powerful, and accurate means to hone their skills by repeating complex manoeuvres without risk, complementing their real-world experience.

“Animmersion’s innovation journey has been truly fascinating, from the original crane simulator on VIVE Pro back in 2016 to its latest upgrade with VIVE Focus Vision. Together we’re bringing the best of XR technology to manufacturing, elevating immersion, safety, and efficiency in training scenarios.”

A Seamless, Fully Immersive Experience

Andrew Liddell, Chief Design Officer at Animmersion UK, highlighted the impact of the latest advancements:

“We are excited to enhance our VR crane training simulator with HTC’s latest headset, taking immersive training to the next level. Our partnership with Unipres began more than nine years ago when technology dictated that the crane simulator required external sensors, cabling, and a PC connection.

“The latest headset eliminates those constraints, delivering a seamless, fully immersive experience. One key advancement is the improved trackers, which allow us to position the real crane controller within the virtual environment. With enhanced hand-tracking, improved resolution, and automatic lens spacing adjustment, this upgrade significantly enhances training effectiveness - not just for Unipres but for all our clients.”

Transforming Workforce Training

Rob Dodds, Training Academy Controller at Unipres (UK), emphasised the value of the collaboration:

“Animmersion UK has been an invaluable partner in our journey to integrate VR into our training programmes. This latest upgrade enhances the realism, safety, and effectiveness of our training, ensuring our operators develop their skills in the most immersive and risk-free way possible. The ability to train staff without disrupting production is a huge advantage, and we’re excited about the impact this technology will continue to have on our workforce.”

With this latest enhancement, Animmersion UK continues to redefine industrial training, providing manufacturers like Unipres with cutting-edge tools to upskill workers efficiently, safely, and with unprecedented realism.