The Use of Virtual Reality in Promoting Industry 4.0 in Manufacturing SMEs

This dissertation delves into a comprehensive exploration of the transformative potential of Virtual Reality (VR) in facilitating the adoption of Industry 4.0 knowledge within Manufacturing Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs). The literature review underscores the pivotal role of Industry 4.0 technologies, encompassing Artificial Intelligence (AI), Internet of Things (IoT), Robotics, Additive Manufacturing, and Digital Twins, in enhancing the productivity, efficiency, and profitability of manufacturing businesses, particularly SMEs. Despite these advantages, the literature also highlights challenges and barriers hindering the seamless integration of Industry 4.0 in SMEs, with workforce skills and knowledge gaps constituting nearly 30% of the identified barriers. Recognising the importance of addressing these skills and knowledge gaps, the literature introduces Virtual Reality as an emerging and effective tool for knowledge transfer within the manufacturing industry. The subsequent development of a test VR platform, featuring three industrial automation courses, presented to manufacturing stakeholders, validates the efficacy of VR in mitigating the knowledge and skills gap. Participants exhibited significant improvement in Industry 4.0 knowledge, confidence, and overall engagement, confirming the potential of VR as a transformative tool for SMEs. This research contributes by shedding light on the unique challenges faced by manufacturing SMEs in adopting Industry 4.0, emphasising the workforce skills and knowledge gap as a significant barrier. The study introduces VR as a viable solution, presenting empirical evidence of its effectiveness in enhancing knowledge, confidence, and engagement among manufacturing stakeholders. The collaborative effort with industry partners unveils the complexities and challenges associated with the development and implementation of VR platforms in the manufacturing sector. Future research recommendations include an in-depth sector analysis, a larger participant pool for more comprehensive evaluations, a focus on long-term impact assessment, and a comparative analysis between traditional training methods and VR-based training. In conclusion, this dissertation provides valuable insights into the transformative potential of Virtual Reality in addressing Industry 4.0 adoption challenges in manufacturing SMEs, laying the groundwork for continued exploration in this dynamic and evolving field.

Name dc:type.qualificationname

msc

Level dc:type.qualificationlevel

masters

Grantor dc:publisher.institution

University of Wales Trinity Saint David

Year dc:date.issued

2024

Author dc:creator

• Okwute, Fredrick Emeka

• TS Diwydiannau

Dc Identifier Grantnumber

UWTSD

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:repository.uwtsd.ac.uk:3101