Ghost Dance is a research project out of Lusófona University that sets out to explore the value of human connection and how it can be recreated with a virtual dance partner. Project directors Cecilia de Lima and Rui Antunes looked to inertial motion capture to create fluid motions that real-life dancers could perform alongside. Challenge: The Ghost Dance team needed to build a 3D model based on dancers' movements to test the relationship between virtual and real-life performers. Creating a realistic model posed a significant challenge. Solution: Inertial motion capture technology allowed dancers to record an entire routine with maximum comfort and accuracy. The result was a virtual partner with smooth motions, making for a natural performance with its real-life counterpart.Key takeaways <ul><li>A diverse range of motion: Even complex movements in contemporary dance can be tracked with inertial sensors</li><li>Efficient recording: Entire choreographed performances were recorded quickly, to work around time restrictions in the dance studio</li><li>Comfortable wear: Dancers could perform unobstructed thanks to the adjustable nature of Xsens wearable technology</li><li>Fluid results: The virtual dance partner moved smoothly, creating a high sense of realism during the performance</li></ul>Studying the importance of human touchBefore beginning the project, the <a href="https://ghostdance.ulusofona.pt/outcomes/publications" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Ghost Dance</a> directors had two main goals. “The first was to understand the need for physical, bodily presence between humans,” says Rui Antunes, Director. “In the new era of technology, we seem to be growing further apart, and we wanted to see whether this had an impact on our wellbeing.” To explore this, the team planned to use VR goggles to compare dancing with a human partner and a virtual counterpart. “We wanted to find out what happens when a human body interacts with a virtual entity,” explains Cecilia de Lima, Director. “We knew it would make for a completely different experience, but we needed to find out how and why.” The other part of Cecilia and Rui’s project was to see if virtual dance partners could improve via machine learning. The digital counterparts were created from the dancer’s movements, but they wanted to see if they could develop their own routines based on the information provided.To achieve these goals, extensive planning was put into place to find the right technology.<img src="https://s3-us-west-1.amazonaws.com/wevolver-project-images/froala%2F1742888563673-Ghost+dance+Performance+Dancing+a+duet+with+avatar+2.jpg" style="width:100%px" class="fr-fic fr-dib" />Building a virtual dance partner This complex project required not only a skilled team, but a set of specialized technology to record the dancers’ performances and transform them into a digital counterpart.Dancers use movements that aren’t typical in day-to-day life, so it was crucial to have a motion capture system to accommodate that complexity. “The Xsens system could accurately record their movements for a perfect translation into a 3D model,” says Rui. Inertial sensors contain accelerometers and gyroscopes, tracking the joint rotation and velocity of the subject. This pinpoint precision allowed for lifelike movements in the virtual dance partner, making a more natural experience for the real-life dancers.“Comfort is essential when dancing,” explains Cecilia. “We needed the motion capture technology to be unobtrusive to get the best results.” The system consists of 17 sensors, which all strap individually onto the body, making each one adjustable to the wearer’s preferences. Having this comfort led to more natural, fluid moves to create the virtual partner. <img src="https://s3-us-west-1.amazonaws.com/wevolver-project-images/froala%2F1742888595821-Ghost+dance+Motion+Capture+for+Avatar+Dance+duets+7.jpg" style="width:100%px" class="fr-fic fr-dib" />Machine learning for virtual dance partnersAfter the dancers were recorded and the virtual partners were made, Cecilia and Rui needed to see whether they could develop from the base-level data. To do this, they created machine-learning algorithms to put the models to the test.A machine cannot make subjective decisions, so the team found a solution to objectify and quantify the dancers’ movements. “The eight Laban efforts are commonly used in theatre and dance classes to expand students’ creativity,” says Cecilia. “These are basic movements, including punching, wringing, and pressing, that a robot could easily identify.”From this information, Cecilia and Rui hope to develop a virtual dance partner that can make its own organic moves in time with a real-life dancer. “Inertial motion capture was the perfect choice for this type of research,” continues Rui. “We had a well-built model that was based on real movement, which provided a baseline for machine learning.”“The research project was incredibly enlightening on the importance of human connection,” concludes Cecilia. “Virtual dance partners are not currently able to replace real ones.” Small sensations, such as breaths and footsteps, are vital when dancing cohesively with a partner. At this stage of technology development, these nuances are not available digitally. However, that’s not to say it won’t happen in the future. Ghost Dance proved that in the future, this could be a feasible alternative to dancing with a real counterpart. It seems increasingly possible when using inertial motion capture to create the basis of the digital partner.Using Xsens meant that the dancers could perform freely, with no need to adjust choreography. This led to an optimal experience when dancing with a virtual partner. <img src="https://s3-us-west-1.amazonaws.com/wevolver-project-images/froala%2F1742888642787-Ghost+dance+Overlay+of+virtual+and+real+partners+dancing+3.png" style="width:100%px" class="fr-fic fr-dib" />

With Inertial Motion Capture

Ghost Dance: Building a virtual dance partner

<html><head></head><body>ChallengeFilmmakers Sam and Andy needed convincing animations that fit into a sci-fi narrative. And they needed to create those movements efficiently and authentically.SolutionAn easy-to-use mocap system that delivered high-quality data, capturing the quirks and nuances of the actors, and gave the animation team plenty of references to work with.Key takeaways<ul><li id="isPasted">Inertial motion capture: More freedom to shoot anywhere and no need for a dedicated mocap studio.</li><li>Ease of use:&nbsp;Xsens is a simple tool for <a href="https://www.movella.com/products/motion-capture" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">motion capture</a>, even without a VFX supervisor on hand.&nbsp;</li><li>Perfect for film production:&nbsp;Put on the suit, make the movements, visualize the data. Small changes could be made quickly and with high precision.</li></ul>Set in a future where humanity is long extinct and the Earth is thawing from a nuclear winter, Love Me is a sci-fi arthouse film created by Sam and Andy Zuchero in which two artificial intelligences, a buoy and a satellite, fall in love. Played by Oscar-nominated <a href="https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0829576/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Kristen Stewart</a> and <a href="https://www.imdb.com/name/nm3081796/?ref_=nv_sr_srsg_0_tt_0_nm_8_in_0_q_steven%2520yeun" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Steven Yeun</a>, the machines slowly evolve into sentient beings, with the audience able to see the transformation before their very eyes.WatchLove Me Featurette, featuring Xsens mocap:<iframe width="640" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/deVnCSQWDnI?&amp;wmode=opaque&amp;rel=0&amp;enablejsapi=1&amp;origin=https://www.wevolver.com" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="" class="fr-draggable" data-lf-form-tracking-inspected-kn9eq4roawkarlvp="true" data-lf-yt-playback-inspected-kn9eq4roawkarlvp="true" data-lf-vimeo-playback-inspected-kn9eq4roawkarlvp="true">&nbsp;</iframe>Preparing for a nuclear winterIn Love Me, a buoy and satellite cross paths and begin communicating. The pair use the Internet to examine what human life was like before the fallout – and end up emulating a popular vlogger duo by creating avatars and eventually morphing to humanlike stature. Creating the three phases required a complex and detailed filmmaking process.Sam and Andy Zuchero were responsible for almost all aspects of the film’s creation, from writing to direction to production, with the help of a dedicated team. A task of this size is no mean feat, especially when extensive VFX is involved. The first step in the production process was to film the native shots, to later be transformed into a post-apocalyptic landscape through VFX.The camera crew set out across North America to find the perfect locations. “We shot the prop buoy and satellite with real props, to give a realistic, gritty feel to our characters,” explains Sam. “And the first scenes with Kristen and Steven were shot using motion capture at the end of 2021.”Xsens in sci-fi filmsBefore production, Sam and Andy researched the best type of motion capture for Love Me, prioritizing efficiency without compromising on quality. “We realized that optical motion capture would be too obstructive, so the <a href="https://www.movella.com/products/motion-capture/xsens-mvn-link" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Xsens system</a> was the best option,” Sam explains.&nbsp;Xsens technology uses inertial technology that logs joint rotation, velocity, and position on the body. These are simply put on as a suit or multiple wearables and their data is instantly sent to processing software – no cameras needed. Traditional optical motion capture requires a large setup with good lighting, a dotted suit, and multiple cameras to film the subject, which wasn’t ideal for the intimacy required in Sam and Andy’s production.“Using this type of motion capture means that the audience can see every quirk and tiny movement of the actor,” Andy explains. Even when the actors aren’t completely recognizable visually, viewers should be able to pick up on their body language.<img src="https://s3-us-west-1.amazonaws.com/wevolver-project-images/froala%2F1742207403473-Love+Me+%28BTS%29+2.jpg" style="width: 100%px;" class="fr-fic fr-dib">Small studio, big ideasThe finished film was released by Bleecker Street in 2025 after an initial screening at the Sundance Festival in January 2024. Sam, Andy, and the Love Me production team successfully blended the two genres of romance and sci-fi, thanks in no small part to the help of Xsens motion capture technology providing an unobtrusive solution.“From an actor’s point of view, it was amazing to include the actor’s intentions and have them translate even through animation,” Sam concludes. “You turn on the motion capture equipment and they can perform, without waiting for the correct lighting and camera setup.”&nbsp;“We really appreciated how simple it was to realize our ideas using Xsens,” Andy says. Using this technology provided the team with an impressive finish to the film that shares the same quality as major Hollywood features, with a fraction of the time spent.</body></html>

With Xsens motion capture technology

Love Me: a sci-fi film production

Wearable haptic devices, which provide touch-based feedback, can provide more realistic experiences in virtual reality, assist with rehabilitation, and create new opportunities for silent communication. Currently, most of these devices rely on vibration, as pressure-based haptics have typically required users to wear stiff exoskeletons or other bulky structures.Now, researchers at Stanford Engineering have designed a comfortable, flexible knit sleeve, called Haptiknit, that can provide realistic pressure-based haptic feedback. Their design, published Dec. 18 in Science Robotics, shows that pressure may be more effective than vibration for some applications and is the first step toward a new category of haptic devices.“A device like this opens up a lot of new possibilities for user interfaces – how we experience virtual environments, how we experience remote communication,” said&nbsp;<a href="https://profiles.stanford.edu/allison-okamura" data-extlink="">Allison Okamura</a>, the Richard W. Weiland Professor of Engineering at Stanford and senior author on the paper. “It’s much more lightweight, wearable, and comfortable.”<h2>A knit solution</h2>Okamura and her colleagues designed a battery-powered pneumatic system with pressure actuators that were essentially small, inflatable pouches that could be rapidly filled with air. But they needed a way to hold those pouches against the skin without using a clunky exoskeleton.“If you put air into a balloon next to your skin but don’t anchor it there, it’s going to expand in all directions,” said Cosima du Pasquier, a postdoctoral researcher at Stanford and first author on the paper. “You’re going to waste most of the inflation potential.”Du Pasquier, who makes clothes as a hobby, realized that knit fabric might hold the answer. The researchers designed a soft textile that would be stiff in some areas – creating an inflexible backing to hold the pressure actuators against the skin – and flexible where needed to allow for movement and comfort.They worked with a team at MIT’s Self-Assembly Lab to manufacture the Haptiknit sleeve prototype on a knitting machine, with space for eight actuators arranged in two rows. Most of the sleeve was knit from nylon and cotton, but the areas backing each actuator also included a thermoplastic fiber. Once the knitting was done, the researchers used heat to melt the thermoplastic fibers and cause them to harden, stiffening those areas.<iframe width="640" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/il4lICuOIAc?&amp;wmode=opaque&amp;rel=0&amp;enablejsapi=1&amp;origin=https://www.wevolver.com" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="" class="fr-draggable" data-lf-form-tracking-inspected-kn9eq4roawkarlvp="true" data-lf-yt-playback-inspected-kn9eq4roawkarlvp="true" data-lf-vimeo-playback-inspected-kn9eq4roawkarlvp="true"></iframe>Demo video of the “Knit Haptic Pneumatic Sleeve” | Skylar Tibbits, MIT Self-Assembly Lab“A challenge in the field of soft robotics is how do you stick together something hard and something soft – they tend to delaminate,” Okamura said. “But putting these fibers into knitting makes a totally seamless transition from parts that are hard to parts that are soft, because it’s one continuous fabric.”The researchers tested the Haptiknit prototype with 32 users. They found that people could more accurately discern the location of individual touches from the pressure actuators than from a similarly arrayed vibrational device. Okamura and her colleagues also tried inflating the actuators consecutively at different speeds to try to create the feeling of a pleasant stroke, as opposed to discrete touches (or the potentially unpleasant feeling of a spider crawling up one’s arm). In general, participants found faster, more overlapping indentation mimicked the feeling of a continuous stroke – the opposite of what the researchers had found for vibration.The third test was to see if participants could recognize six emotions – attention, gratitude, happiness, calming, love, and sadness – conveyed through the pressure signals. The researchers used touch patterns established in previous research and found that participants generally guessed correctly at a higher-than-chance rate, although the gestures for “calming” and “love” were easily confused.<h2>More comfortable haptics</h2>Overall, participants found the Haptiknit sensations to be equally or more pleasant than those caused by vibrations. They also described the prototype sleeve as comfortable and easy to use, which is promising for more long-term uses.“What was particularly interesting was that there was a correlation between whether someone had tried a haptic device before and how highly they rated the comfort of our sleeve,” du Pasquier said. “Essentially, if they had tried out other haptic devices, they scored our sleeves much higher.”With more lightweight, comfortable haptic devices, the researchers are envisioning new opportunities for conveying information through touch. Haptiknit could be used to aid in navigation, military communication, and even dog training, du Pasquier said.Okamura, du Pasquier, and their colleagues are working on refining and optimizing their knitting patterns, as well as creating larger-scale devices – perhaps even a full suit – for virtual reality interactions. They also hope to incorporate this work into assistive devices that can help people move or aid in rehabilitation.“We can use this to start testing how people actually interpret and respond to this type of haptic information,” Okamura said. “Whether the purpose is entertainment, communication, training, or physical assistance, this really brings these wearable devices toward things that people might actually want to use in their everyday lives.”&nbsp;<hr>Okamura, a professor of mechanical engineering, is a member of<a href="http://biox.stanford.edu/" data-extlink="">&nbsp;Stanford Bio-X</a>, the<a href="https://humanperformance.stanford.edu/" data-extlink="">&nbsp;Wu Tsai Human Performance Alliance</a>&nbsp;and the<a href="https://neuroscience.stanford.edu/" data-extlink="">&nbsp;Wu Tsai Neurosciences Institute</a>, a faculty affiliate of the<a href="https://hai.stanford.edu/" data-extlink="">&nbsp;Institute for Human-Centered Artificial Intelligence</a>, a science fellow at the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.hoover.org/" data-extlink="">Hoover Institution</a>, an executive committee member for the&nbsp;<a href="https://src.stanford.edu/" data-extlink="">Stanford Robotics Center</a>, and a faculty member of the&nbsp;<a href="https://centerfordesignresearch.stanford.edu/" data-extlink="">Center for Design Research</a>.Additional Stanford co-authors of this research are visiting students Ian Scholl and Liana Tilton.Other co-authors of this work are from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and the University of Houston.

Haptiknit sleeve worn on the arm, including the control system on the upper arm. | Susan Williams, MIT Self-Assembly Lab

Researchers at Stanford Engineering have developed a lightweight, comfortable knit sleeve that uses pressure-based haptics to simulate touch, opening up new possibilities for wearable devices.

New knit haptic sleeve simulates realistic touch

While generative artificial intelligence models for images can streamline artistic processes by enabling creators to produce lifelike 2D images from text prompts, these models are not designed to generate 3D shapes. To bridge the gap, a recently developed technique called&nbsp;<a href="https://dreamfusion3d.github.io/">Score Distillation</a> leverages 2D image generation models to create 3D shapes, but its output often ends up blurry or cartoonish.MIT researchers explored the relationships and differences between the algorithms used to generate 2D images and 3D shapes, identifying the root cause of lower-quality 3D models. From there, they crafted a simple fix to Score Distillation, which enables the generation of sharp, high-quality 3D shapes that are closer in quality to the best model-generated 2D images.Some other methods try to fix this problem by retraining or fine-tuning the generative AI model, which can be expensive and time-consuming.By contrast, the MIT researchers’ technique achieves 3D shape quality on par with or better than these approaches without additional training or complex postprocessing. Moreover, by identifying the cause of the problem, the researchers have improved mathematical understanding of Score Distillation and related techniques, enabling future work to further improve performance.“Now we know where we should be heading, which allows us to find more efficient solutions that are faster and higher-quality,” says Artem Lukoianov, an electrical engineering and computer science (EECS) graduate student who is lead author of a paper on this technique. “In the long run, our work can help facilitate the process to be a co-pilot for designers, making it easier to create more realistic 3D shapes.”Lukoianov’s co-authors are Haitz Sáez de Ocáriz Borde, a graduate student at Oxford University; Kristjan Greenewald, a research scientist in the MIT-IBM Watson AI Lab; Vitor Campagnolo Guizilini, a scientist at the Toyota Research Institute; Timur Bagautdinov, a research scientist at Meta; and senior authors Vincent Sitzmann, an assistant professor of EECS at MIT who leads the Scene Representation Group in the Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence Laboratory (CSAIL) and Justin Solomon, an associate professor of EECS and leader of the CSAIL Geometric Data Processing Group. The research will be presented at the Conference on Neural Information Processing Systems.<h2>From 2D images to 3D shapes</h2>Diffusion models, such as DALL-E, are a type of generative AI model that can produce lifelike images from random noise. To train these models, researchers add noise to images and then teach the model to reverse the process and remove the noise. The models use this learned “denoising” process to create images based on a user’s text prompts.But diffusion models underperform at directly generating realistic 3D shapes because there are not enough 3D data to train them. To get around this problem, researchers developed a technique called <a href="https://dreamfusion3d.github.io/">Score Distillation Sampling</a> (SDS) in 2022 that uses a pretrained diffusion model to combine 2D images into a 3D representation.The technique involves starting with a random 3D representation, rendering a 2D view of a desired object from a random camera angle, adding noise to that image, denoising it with a diffusion model, then optimizing the random 3D representation so it matches the denoised image. These steps are repeated until the desired 3D object is generated.However, 3D shapes produced this way tend to look blurry or oversaturated.“This has been a bottleneck for a while. We know the underlying model is capable of doing better, but people didn’t know why this is happening with 3D shapes,” Lukoianov says.The MIT researchers explored the steps of SDS and identified a mismatch between a formula that forms a key part of the process and its counterpart in 2D diffusion models. The formula tells the model how to update the random representation by adding and removing noise, one step at a time, to make it look more like the desired image.Since part of this formula involves an equation that is too complex to be solved efficiently, SDS replaces it with randomly sampled noise at each step. The MIT researchers found that this noise leads to blurry or cartoonish 3D shapes.<h2>An approximate answer</h2>Instead of trying to solve this cumbersome formula precisely, the researchers tested approximation techniques until they identified the best one. Rather than randomly sampling the noise term, their approximation technique infers the missing term from the current 3D shape rendering.“By doing this, as the analysis in the paper predicts, it generates 3D shapes that look sharp and realistic,” he says.In addition, the researchers increased the resolution of the image rendering and adjusted some model parameters to further boost 3D shape quality.In the end, they were able to use an off-the-shelf, pretrained image diffusion model to create smooth, realistic-looking 3D shapes without the need for costly retraining. The 3D objects are similarly sharp to those produced using other methods that rely on ad hoc solutions.“Trying to blindly experiment with different parameters, sometimes it works and sometimes it doesn’t, but you don’t know why. We know this is the equation we need to solve. Now, this allows us to think of more efficient ways to solve it,” he says.Because their method relies on a pretrained diffusion model, it inherits the biases and shortcomings of that model, making it prone to hallucinations and other failures. Improving the underlying diffusion model would enhance their process.In addition to studying the formula to see how they could solve it more effectively, the researchers are interested in exploring how these insights could improve image editing techniques.This work is funded, in part, by the Toyota Research Institute, the U.S. National Science Foundation, the Singapore Defense Science and Technology Agency, the U.S. Intelligence Advanced Research Projects Activity, the Amazon Science Hub, IBM, the U.S. Army Research Office, the CSAIL Future of Data program, the Wistron Corporation, and the MIT-IBM Watson AI Laboratory.

Creating realistic 3D models for applications like virtual reality, filmmaking, and engineering design can be a cumbersome process requiring lots of manual trial and error.

A new way to create realistic 3D shapes using generative AI

In this episode, we explore a groundbreaking neurotechnology that boosts memory without the need for invasive surgery potentially helping people all over the world struggling with spatial memory.

Podcast: Non-invasive Memory Booster

This article was discussed in our <a href="https://www.wevolver.com/profile/the.next.byte" rel="noopener noreferrer">Next Byte podcast</a>.&nbsp;<iframe height="200px" width="100%" frameborder="no" scrolling="no" seamless="" src="https://player.simplecast.com/6b08d0cb-2606-44e8-be73-1dd17a7d2839?dark=false" class="fr-draggable" data-gtm-yt-inspected-24="true" data-lf-form-tracking-inspected-kn9eq4roawkarlvp="true" data-lf-yt-playback-inspected-kn9eq4roawkarlvp="true" data-lf-vimeo-playback-inspected-kn9eq4roawkarlvp="true"></iframe> The full article will continue below.<hr> <iframe width="640" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/k7oJjazQAe4?&amp;wmode=opaque&amp;rel=0&amp;enablejsapi=1&amp;origin=https://www.wevolver.com" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="" class="fr-draggable" data-gtm-yt-inspected-24="true" data-lf-form-tracking-inspected-kn9eq4roawkarlvp="true" data-lf-yt-playback-inspected-kn9eq4roawkarlvp="true" data-lf-vimeo-playback-inspected-kn9eq4roawkarlvp="true">&nbsp;</iframe>As we age, it becomes more difficult to remember where things are—whether it’s recalling where we left the keys or where we parked the car. This spatial memory deteriorates further with the onset of dementia, a condition that someone in the world develops every three seconds, according to Alzheimer’s Disease International.<img src="https://images.wevolver.com/eyJidWNrZXQiOiJ3ZXZvbHZlci1wcm9qZWN0LWltYWdlcyIsImtleSI6ImZyb2FsYS8xNzMxMDI1MjMwNTYyLTI5YzA1YzhlLmpwZyIsImVkaXRzIjp7InJlc2l6ZSI6eyJ3aWR0aCI6OTUwLCJmaXQiOiJjb3ZlciJ9fX0=" style="width: 100%px;" class="fr-fic fr-dib">© Alzheimer’s Disease International<blockquote>We are addressing a serious concern for those affected by dementia.<footer>- Friedhelm Hummel</footer></blockquote>Researchers at two EPFL labs have joined forces to give a boost to spatial memory by creating a unique experimental setup that combines non-invasive deep-brain stimulation, virtual reality training, and fMRI imaging—all housed within Campus Biotech in Geneva. Published in Science Advances, the study demonstrates that targeted, painless electric impusles to the hippocampus and adjacent structures, a deep brain region implied in memory and spatial navigation, can improve the brain’s ability to recall locations and navigate more effectively.“By finding ways to improve spatial memory without surgery or medication, we are addressing a serious concern for a large and growing population: the elderly, as well as brain trauma patients and those affected by dementia,” says Friedhelm Hummel, head of the <a href="https://www.epfl.ch/labs/hummel-lab/">Hummel Lab</a>.The study is the result of a collaboration between the Hummel Lab and Olaf Blanke’s Laboratory of Cognitive Neuroscience (<a href="https://www.epfl.ch/labs/lnco/">LCNO</a>), both at EPFL’s Neuro X institute. By combining Hummel’s expertise in non-invasive brain stimulation with Blanke’s cognitive research of spatial navigation in virtual reality environments, the researchers developed a unique neuro-technological setup.<h2>A one-of-a-kind combination of neuro-technologies</h2>The experiment begins with researchers placing four harmless electrodes on the heads of healthy individuals to stimulate the hippocampus and adjacent structures. This non-invasive technique, <a href="https://actu.epfl.ch/news/non-invasive-deep-brain-stimulation-enhances-motor/">called transcranial temporal interference electric stimulation</a> (tTIS), sends targeted pulses without causing any discomfort for the participant.<blockquote>This leads us to believe that by stimulating the hippocampus, we temporarily increased brain plasticity.<footer>Elena Beanato</footer></blockquote>Next, volunteers are immersed in a virtual world using VR goggles. <a href="https://infoscience.epfl.ch/server/api/core/bitstreams/3f433490-92a4-461e-be04-fc02dea934b0/content">Building on previous research</a> by co-first-author Hyuk-June Moon, the scientists task the participants with navigating through a series of locations and remembering key landmarks. This immersive virtual setting allows researchers to precisely measure how well participants can recall and navigate spatial information whilst receiving tTIS.<img src="https://images.wevolver.com/eyJidWNrZXQiOiJ3ZXZvbHZlci1wcm9qZWN0LWltYWdlcyIsImtleSI6ImZyb2FsYS8xNzMxMDI1Mjc2NjI5LTkyYmZiNzhiLmpwZyIsImVkaXRzIjp7InJlc2l6ZSI6eyJ3aWR0aCI6OTUwLCJmaXQiOiJjb3ZlciJ9fX0=" style="width: 100%px;" class="fr-fic fr-dib">Full experimental setup at Campus Biotech, combining non-invasive brain stimulation, virtual reality and fMRI. © 2024 EPFL“When stimulation was applied, we observed a clear improvement of the participants’ recall time—the time it took to start moving toward where they remembered the object to be,” says Elena Beanato, the other first author of the study. “This leads us to believe that by stimulating the hippocampus, we temporarily increased brain plasticity, which, when combined with training in a virtual environment, leads to better spatial navigation.”The entire experiment was conducted within an fMRI scanner. This provided researchers with real-time images of brain activity, allowing them to monitor how the hippocampus and surrounding regions responded to tTIS during the spatial navigation tasks. The fMRI data revealed changes in neural activity associated with the observed behavioral changes, specifically in the regions responsible for memory and navigation, giving the researchers deeper insight into how non-invasive stimulation modulates brain function.This integration of advanced technologies at EPFL's Neuro X Institute, makes Campus Biotech one of the few places where all three experimental techniques can be combined in a single study.<blockquote>“In the long term, we envision using this approach to develop targeted therapies for patients suffering from cognitive impairments.<footer>- Olaf Blanke</footer></blockquote>“The alliance of tTIS, virtual reality, and fMRI offers a highly controlled and innovative approach to studying the brain’s response to stimulation and its impact on cognitive functions,” adds Olaf Blanke. “In the long term, we envision using this approach to develop targeted therapies for patients suffering from cognitive impairments, offering a non-invasive way to enhance memory and spatial abilities.”<hr>ReferencesBeanato, E., Moon, H.-J., Windel, F., Vassiliadis, P., Wessel, M. J., Popa, T., Menoud, P., Neufeld, E., De Falco, E., Gauthier, B., Steiner, M., Blanke, O., &amp; Hummel, F. C. (2024). Noninvasive modulation of the hippocampal-entorhinal complex during spatial navigation in humans. Science Advances. DOI: <a href="https://doi.org/10.1126/sciadv.ado4103" target="_blank" rel="noopener">10.1126/sciadv.ado4103</a>

EPFL researchers have combined virtual reality, non-invasive brain stimulation and advanced brain imaging techniques to improve spatial navigation in healthy participants. The study is a first step in addressing dementia in an aging population without medication or surgery.

Neurotechnology boosts memory without surgery

<h2 id="isPasted">1. Expansion of Interactions in Space such as Spatial Computing and User Interfaces</h2>Spatial computing is revolutionizing the interaction between the digital world and the physical world, creating immersive experiences where virtual elements blend seamlessly with reality. The technology spans augmented reality (AR), virtual reality (VR) and mixed reality (MR) and enhances fields such as productivity, education, gaming and industrial design. The expansion of spatial computing, driven by continued advances in hardware, software and artificial intelligence, is pushing the boundaries of interactive immersive environments.Position tracking of hands and controllers is important to realize the interaction between the digital world and the physical world. Position tracking and interaction can also be used in other applications.Application example<ul><li>Touch sensitive displays (3D displays, laptops)</li><li>AR related accurately tracked peripheral devices (bracelets, rings, watches)</li><li>General purpose computer peripheral devices (mouse, trackpads)</li><li>Tools tracking (training tool, surgical scalpel, stylus pen)</li><li>Full-body motion capture</li><li>and more</li></ul><h2>2. How Position Tracking is Used for Interactions in Space</h2>The position tracking is fundamental to interaction in space and allows you to accurately track position and orientation of objects in 3D space. Accurate position tracking ensures that input from a user is correctly recognized on devices, that virtual elements are correctly positioned in the physical world, and that a user has a seamless and reliable experience. Without it, the virtual objects cannot properly interact with the real world, reducing immersion and engaging experiences.<img src="https://s3-us-west-1.amazonaws.com/wevolver-project-images/froala%2F1727662910500-img-tracking-1.jpg" style="width: 100%px;" class="fr-fic fr-dib"><h3 id="isPasted">2-1 Traditional Position Tracking Technologies</h3>Several technologies are used to achieve position tracking for interactions in space. The following is a basic overview of the technologies.<table><thead><tr><th>Tracking Method</th><th>Pros</th><th>Cons</th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td>1. Optical hand tracking</td><td>Done only by cameras</td><td>Poor accuracy in depth and positionHeavy dependence on environment</td></tr><tr><td>2. Optical marker tracking</td><td>Modern technologyRelatively high accuracy</td><td>Many track markers such as LEDs neededHeavy dependence on environment</td></tr><tr><td>3. Inertial tracking</td><td>SmallLow power</td><td>Calibration and original location information neededPoor accuracy with drift and offsets</td></tr></tbody></table>Optical hand tracking uses a camera to track form of a hand. This is only done by cameras in devices and does not require additional hardware. However, accuracy of depth and position is poor because the acquired information is 2D images. Moreover, it is heavily dependent on context: environmental light such as sunlight, background textures, contrasts.Optical marker tracking uses a camera to track markers such as LEDs or features in environments. This is the modern technology and has relatively better accuracy compared to optical hand tracking. However, many track markers are needed, which leads to hardware design limitations. And it is also heavily dependent on the contexts same as optical hand tracking (environmental light such as sunlight, background textures, contrasts).Inertial tracking uses an accelerometer and a gyroscope (and sometimes a magnetometer) to measure movements. With this technology, the devices can be small and low power. However, inertial sensors cannot estimate the position by themselves and require calibration of the original position. Furthermore, inertial sensors suffer from drift and offset, resulting in poor accuracy.There are other technologies such as optical tracking and magnetic tracking with base stations. It is difficult for them to spread to the general uses because they are relatively expensive and large.<h3>2-2 Next Generation Position Tracking Technology</h3>There is a new position tracking technology combining ultrasound, optical, and inertial technologies. This new method addresses the limitations of traditional tracking technologies with the features of small size, high accuracy, affordability, and adaptability. This technology is compatible with any devices which include cameras, microphones, and a communication link such as XR devices. Additionally, this technology contributes to a wide range of tracked devices from small form factors to traditional controllers, which is ideal for spatial computing and user interfaces. In the near future, professional verticals such as simulated reality, training, design, creativity, gaming, virtual production, etc. will grow by new devices.<h3>2-3 Technology Demonstrated by Sensoryx's Maliang Magic Pencil</h3>The Maliang Magic Pencil represents the smart fusion technology of the ultrasound, optical, and Inertial technologies, realizing the features such as small size and high accuracy. This technology invites it's users to dive into spatial computing with confidence and precision.<iframe width="640" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/pZGcNceizlI?&amp;wmode=opaque&amp;enablejsapi=1&amp;origin=https://www.wevolver.com" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="" class="fr-draggable" data-lf-form-tracking-inspected-kn9eq4roawkarlvp="true" data-lf-yt-playback-inspected-kn9eq4roawkarlvp="true" data-lf-vimeo-playback-inspected-kn9eq4roawkarlvp="true"></iframe> <h2>3. Advantages of Position Tracking Technology using Ultrasound</h2>The position tracking is realized by using 1D information (distance and depth). Ultrasound technology uses sound waves to determine the distance and depth of objects by the principle of time of flight (ToF).The ultrasound method has several key advantages.<ul><li>High accuracy: It has precise accuracy in determining the depth and the position of objects.</li><li>Compact size: Transducers can be integrated into small devices.</li><li>Low power consumption: It is ideal for battery powered devices, ensuring longer operational times.</li><li>Robustness: It performs consistently well in all lighting conditions, including direct sunlight.</li><li>Light information: It realizes fast processing and response of sensing.</li><li>Wide field of view: It contributes to wider area of sensing.</li></ul>By utilizing multiple ultrasound transducers and their 1D information, the position of objects can be calculated. With this technology, 3D location sensing can be done by only ultrasound, so that the cameras on devices can be replaced.<img src="https://s3-us-west-1.amazonaws.com/wevolver-project-images/froala%2F1727662946298-1727662946298.png" class="fr-fic fr-dib">This ultrasound technology brings a lot of benefits to realize better position tracking. For future devices, miniaturization is needed. This ultrasound tracking technology offers adoptability with the current devices as the existing microphones can receive low frequency ultrasound, meaning there is no need of additional installation of receivers while other technologies need additional receiver design and optimization.In peripheral devices or other tracked devices, the modern technologies cannot offer the size of form desired by the user or designers. This ultrasound tracking technology can offer very small form factor. No other technology can or will be able to deliver the highly accurate position tracking at the same time being able to be embedded in intuitive and small tools or devices, such as: watches, pens, rings, etc.For the future devices where compute performance is limited, this ultrasound tracking technology offers currently the only feasible technology to perform high accuracy tracking. Established technologies like optical technologies are not useable on devices with low compute and/or battery life. Sensoryx tracking technology is currently the only 6DoF tracking technology.<h2>4. Future Example of Position Tracking Devices using Ultrasound</h2>A future example of the spatial computing and user Interfaces of utilizing new ultrasound technology is smart glasses. These devices are equipped with some microphones which are essential for capturing precise audio and environmental data. The advanced ultrasound technology is aligned with these devices, leveraging their multiple microphones to provide highly accurate position tracking even under intense light condition and interaction capabilities without the need for any optical reference.Ultrasound only technology is instrumental for developing their accessory ecosystem and ensuring seamless integration with not limited to the smart glasses but including the next generation of tracking devices. As such, it expands the possibility of realization of better spatial computing and user interfaces.<h2>5. Murata Manufacturing's Developing Ultra-Small Ultrasound Sensor</h2>Murata Manufacturing is now developing piezoelectric MEMS ultrasonic transducer (pMUT) integrating its MEMS technology and ultrasonic technology.<img src="https://s3-us-west-1.amazonaws.com/wevolver-project-images/froala%2F1727662976105-1727662976105.png" class="fr-fic fr-dib">This pMUT brings many advantages with the following features.<ul><li>Compact size: It is designed for integration into small devices, enhancing portability.</li><li>Energy efficient: Its low power consumption makes it suitable for portable and battery powered devices.</li><li>Low frequency: Ultrasound transmitted by the pMUT can be received by MEMS microphones.</li><li>Wide field of view: Wide coverage of sensing can be realized.</li></ul>With these features, Murata Manufacturing's pMUT is suitable for ultrasound tracking technology, and it contributes to the realization of more innovative devices for spatial computing and user interfaces in the future.<hr><table style="width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td style="width: 100%;">Sensoryx InformationThe next generation motion tracking by combination of ultrasound, optical, and Inertial technologies, and the technology realization image shown in the Other Links video below (Maliang Magic Pencil) are presented by Sensoryx, the forefront of reshaping the XR landscape with innovative motion tracking solutions. They have elevated ultrasonic tracking to unprecedented heights with technologies and solution. </td></tr></tbody></table><a href="https://www.murata.com/en-global/products/sensor/overview/dl?intcid1=mar_art_xxx_tac_xxx_tac-ows"><img src="https://s3-us-west-1.amazonaws.com/wevolver-project-images/froala%2F1730732718509-Screenshot+2024-11-04+160450.png" style="width: 100%px;" class="fr-fic fr-dib"></a>

Spatial computing is revolutionizing the interaction between the digital world and the physical world, creating immersive experiences where virtual elements blend seamlessly with reality.

A New Tracking Technology in 3D space - Using Ultrasound

<h2 id="isPasted">What is fashion tech? - diverse technologies and methods evolving the industry</h2><img src="https://s3-us-west-1.amazonaws.com/wevolver-project-images/froala%2F1727662428032-img-0001+%282%29.jpg" style="width: 100%px;" class="fr-fic fr-dib">Providing new product value and customer experiences with technology“Fashion tech” is a term that combines fashion and technology. It refers to the use of big data, artificial intelligence (AI), augmented reality/virtual reality (AR/VR), and IT in customer services; the development of products incorporating functional materials and wearable devices; and the application of electronics and digital technologies in manufacturing, processing, and distribution processes.Fashion tech is expected to garner even more attention as a means to invigorate future consumption activities, products, industries, and markets as technology progresses and new products and services are introduced. As mentioned earlier, fashion tech is a broad term, but it can be classified into two categories based on its nature. One is the evolution of services and customer experiences (CX), and the other is the evolution of product functionality and manufacturing processes. We explain these two aspects of fashion tech in the following sections.<h2>Fashion tech evolving the customer experience (CX)</h2><img src="https://s3-us-west-1.amazonaws.com/wevolver-project-images/froala%2F1727662469020-img-0002+%282%29.jpg" style="width: 100%px;" class="fr-fic fr-dib">An illustration of virtual fitting using ARIT and digital transformation (DX) are currently driving fashion tech. There have been many challenges in enhancing sales CX in stores and on e-commerce sites, but many of these have been addressed through IT and DX initiatives.For example, when selling clothing, shoes, jewelry, watches, eyewear, bags, etc., online, a longstanding issue has been the high hurdle for purchase decisions due to the difficulty for individual consumers to imagine how the actual products would look on them. However, in recent years, virtual fitting using AR (augmented reality) that can be easily used with cameras on smartphones and tablets has become widely adopted. Even without 3D data for products, the technology to enable three-dimensional representation in AR using artificial intelligence (AI) if multiple 2D images of the product are prepared has lowered the barrier to service introduction. In parallel with virtual fitting, services are now emerging whereby AI assesses how well eyewear and accessories suit a consumer based on the individual’s facial features and the item’s shape and size. These technological advances are driving the improvement of CX through the introduction of fashion tech.<img src="https://s3-us-west-1.amazonaws.com/wevolver-project-images/froala%2F1727662507296-img-0003+%282%29.jpg" style="width: 100%px;" class="fr-fic fr-dib">Leveraging RFID and AI to enhance CXFurthermore, the adoption of radio frequency identification (RFID) technology, including RFID tags and readers, is also advancing, and its applications are moving beyond rationalizing inventory management. RFID is being used to reduce checkout lines and payment hassles by simplifying self-checkout and to protect brands, such as by authenticating genuine products. Additionally, AI is being used to analyze customer and consumption trends across physical stores and e-commerce sites using RFID data. This enables swift response to customer needs through appropriate inventory adjustments. These are just some of the ways technology is being used. The related articles below explain more details.<h2>Fashion tech evolving product value and manufacturing processes through technology</h2>The DX and CX-oriented fashion tech mentioned above is expected to develop further. In addition, fashion tech that provides new added value to consumers through new characteristics and functions of materials and products is likely to garner more attention in the future due to advancements in materials, wearable devices, engineering, and manufacturing processes. Here, we introduce technologies such as digital fabrication, smart textiles, smart fabrics, and wearables, which are said to be key to the future development of fashion tech.<h3>Digital fabrication</h3><img src="https://s3-us-west-1.amazonaws.com/wevolver-project-images/froala%2F1727662547797-img-0004+%283%29.jpg" style="width: 100%px;" class="fr-fic fr-dib">Example of the use of digital data and a 3D printerDigital fabrication is a general term for technologies that make or process products based on digital data. In fashion product manufacturing, it refers to using 3D scanners and 3D CAD to digitize product ideas and patterns and then importing the digitized data into digital manufacturing machines such as 3D printers and laser cutters to shape or process the ideas and patterns.Digital fabrication has attracted attention in recent years due to the diversification of needs and the development of digital technologies. By streamlining the design and manufacturing processes, digital fabrication has made it possible to accommodate high-mix, low-volume production and the manufacturing of personalized products. It is also gaining attention as a technology for providing new added value to products, such as the manufacturing and processing of materials with structures, functions, and properties that were not previously available.<h3>Smart fabrics (smart textiles)</h3><img src="https://s3-us-west-1.amazonaws.com/wevolver-project-images/froala%2F1727662583771-img-0005+%281%29.jpg" style="width: 100%px;" class="fr-fic fr-dib">Providing new added value by imparting functionality to materials themselvesExpectations are rising for smart fabrics or smart textiles (hereinafter, smart fabrics), technologies that create new added value by imparting functionality to fashion products’ materials themselves. The digital fabrication mentioned earlier is also a means to realize these technologies.Smart fabrics generally refer to imparting functionality to fibers by integrating electronics technology. The functions are diverse. For example, the clothing itself may function as a sensor to monitor the wearer’s health condition, use electricity for sterilization, or regulate temperature. Various R&amp;D and commercialization efforts are underway to realize these functions. Many of these technologies are attracting attention for a wide range of purposes, such as health and medical care, sports and fitness, and safety improvement. The introduction of such technologies into everyday clothing is being plotted to provide new added value through fashion products with advanced functionality.

“Fashion tech” refers to the use of big data, AI, AR/VR, and IT in customer services; the development of products incorporating functional materials and wearable devices; and the application of electronics and digital technologies in manufacturing, processing, and distribution processes.

What is Fashion Tech? Providing New Product Value and Customer Experiences with Technology

In a constantly changing world – saturated with a multitude of impressions – it can sometimes be difficult to maintain an overview. After all, all impressions not only have to be perceived, but also interpreted, which ultimately opens up a wide range of options for action. This is where LUMINOUS (Language Augmentation for Humanverse) system comes into play. The DFKI-technology collects countless impressions, interprets them and can suggest an appropriate action using MLLM.<blockquote id="isPasted">"Through our developed technology, virtual worlds become increasingly intelligent. The intuitive interaction (via text) with the system and automatic generation of complex behaviors and processes through 'generative AI' or so-called 'Multi-Modal Large Language Models' enable us not only to experience them, but also to test them. To achieve this, at project LUMINOUS we are working in parallel on several approaches such as automatic code generation, the rapid input of new data and other solutions."<footer>Didier Stricker, Lead "Augmented Vision" at DFKI</footer></blockquote><header><h2>System observes, interprets – and refines itself</h2></header>In the new LUMINOUS project, DFKI is working on next-generation augmented reality (XR) systems. In the future, generative and multimodal language models (MLLM) will join the existing technical extensions of our visually perceived reality, such as the form of texts, animations or the insertion of virtual objects, and redefine interaction with augmented reality (XR) technology.Muhammad Zeshan Afzal, researcher in the department 'Augmented Vision' at DFKI explains, how this might look like in practise:„Let’s take the following scenario: a fire breaks out in a room. In this case, our system first determines where the person – who is equipped with our technology – is currently located. It then collects relevant data from their immediate surroundings, such as the presence of a fire extinguisher or an emergency exit and passes this on to the generative and multimodal language model. This then determines a suitable recommendation for action, such as initiating the extinguishing process using a fire extinguisher, closing windows, or getting to safety.”<img src="https://images.wevolver.com/eyJidWNrZXQiOiJ3ZXZvbHZlci1wcm9qZWN0LWltYWdlcyIsImtleSI6ImZyb2FsYS8xNzI2NTMwNzIzODgwLTEyNDIxNC5wbmciLCJlZGl0cyI6eyJyZXNpemUiOnsid2lkdGgiOjk1MCwiZml0IjoiY292ZXIifX19" style="width: 100%px;" class="fr-fic fr-dib"><header id="isPasted"><h2>Learning from descriptions creates flexibility</h2></header>Until now, R&amp;D endeavours have been largely limited to the spatial tracking of users and their environment. The result: very specific, limited, and non-generalisable representations, as well as predefined graphic visualizations and animations. „Language Augmentation for Humanverse“ aims to change this in the future.To achieve this, the researchers at DFKI are developing a platform with language support that adapts to individual, non-predefined user needs and previously unknown augmented reality environments. The adaptable concept originates from zero-shot learning (ZSL), an AI system that is trained to recognize and categorize objects and scenarios – without having seen exemplary reference material in advance.The assistance helps LUMINOUS to learn and constantly expand its knowledge – beyond the pure training data. By making names and text descriptions available to the LLM, LUMINOUS will use its database of image descriptions to build up a flexible image and text vocabulary that makes it possible to recognize even unknown objects or scenes.<header><h2>Interactive support in real time</h2><img src="https://s3-us-west-1.amazonaws.com/wevolver-project-images/froala%2F1726530985514-vinicius-amnx-amano-XOnbUXqILzA-unsplash.jpg" style="width: 100%px;" class="fr-fic fr-dib">Photo by Vinicius "amnx" Amano on UnsplashThe areas of application for augmented reality systems such as LUMINOUS go beyond situational assistance. „We are currently investigating possible applications for everyday care of sick people, implementation of training programmes, performance monitoring and motivation”, says Zeshan Afzal.As a kind of translator, the LLM from LUMINOUS should be able to describe everyday activities on command and mediate them to users via a voice interface or avatar. The visual assistance and recommended actions provided in this way will then support everyday activities in real time.<h2>LUMINOUS in application</h2>The results of the project are being tested in three pilot projects focussing on neurorehabilitation (support for stroke patients with speech disorders), immersive safety training in the workplace and the testing of 3D architectural designs.In the case of neurorehabilitation of stroke patients with severe communication deficits (aphasia), realistic virtual characters (avatars) support the initiation of conversation through image-directed models. These are based on natural language and enable generalization to other activities of daily life. Objects in the scene (including people) are recognized in real time using eye-tracking and object recognition algorithms. Patients can then ask the avatar or MLLM to articulate either the name of the object or the first phoneme. To use the language models in the patient’s respective environment, patients undergo personalised and intensive XR-supported training.<img src="https://s3-us-west-1.amazonaws.com/wevolver-project-images/froala%2F1726531264095-amr-taha-JpmhbbPhuZA-unsplash.jpg" style="width: 100%px;" class="fr-fic fr-dib">Photo by Amr Taha™ on UnsplashThe LUMINOUS-Tech captures the movements and style of the human trainer with a minimal number of sensors to enable the modelling and instantiation of three-dimensional avatars. The aim is to use only kinematic information derived exclusively from the input of the headset, the position of the head and the hands during training.Future users of these new XR-systems will be able to interact seamlessly with their environment by using language models while having access to constantly updated global and domain-specific knowledge sources. In this way, new XR-technologies can be used for distance learning and education, entertainment, or healthcare services, for example.<hr><header id="isPasted"><h2>Partners:</h2></header><ul><li>German Research Centre for Artificial Intelligence GmbH (DFKI)</li><li>Ludus Tech SL</li><li>Mindesk Societa a Responsabilita Limita</li><li>Fraunhofer Society for the Advancement of Applied Research</li><li>Universidad del Pais Vasco/Euskal Herriko Universitatea</li><li>Fundación Centro de Tecnologias de Interacción visual y Comunicaciones Vicomtech</li><li>University College Dublin</li><li>National University of Ireland</li><li>Hypercliq IKE</li><li>Ricoh International B.V. – Brach Office Germany</li><li>MindMaze SA</li><li>Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Vaudois</li><li>University College London</li></ul>The project is subsidised by the European Union. Project LUMINOUS (Language Augmentation for Humanverse) does in no way shape or form relate to the AI Language Model Luminous, developed by Aleph Alpha.</header>

The DFKI-technology collects countless impressions, interprets them and can suggest an appropriate action using MLLM.

Project Luminous: The next level of Augmented Reality

<a href="https://esiliveautomotive.vfairs.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">ESI LIVE Automotive</a> is an event that’s dedicated to driving EV innovation through the power of virtual prototyping. Attend online on October 24th to discover how ESI’s cutting-edge simulation software supercharges design cycles, boosts efficiency, and ensures flawless manufacturability.Get ready to explore game-changing strategies for optimizing EV safety, comfort, and durability with the latest digital innovations. Dive into mastering EV acoustics, and see how virtual manufacturing is driving the shift towards lightweight materials. Take a step into the industrial metaverse where XR technology is redefining collaboration in design, manufacturing, and maintenance.&nbsp;Sign up for ESI LIVE Automotive and attend insightful panel discussions, hear inspiring customer stories, and grab a front-row seat to the future of the EV industry!<table style="width: 98%; margin-right: calc(2%);"><tbody><tr><td style="width: 100%;">What:&nbsp;ESI LIVE Automotive digital event When: October 24th, 2-4 PM CET Register: Free to attend.&nbsp;<a href="https://esiliveautomotive.vfairs.com/en/registration?utm_source=wevolver&utm_medium=all&utm_campaign=registration" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Sign up to attend here.</a> </td></tr></tbody></table><h3 id="isPasted">Highlights of ESI LIVE: &nbsp;</h3><ul><li>Optimizing EV safety, comfort, and durability:&nbsp; &nbsp;Discover innovative strategies for ensuring safety compliance, enhancing seating design and pre-certification, and streamlining the design process of complex systems through cutting-edge digital solutions.</li><li>Mastering noise and sound-enhancing EV acoustics:&nbsp; &nbsp;Identify next-generation simulation methodologies and innovative design techniques come together to revolutionize acoustic performance in electric vehicles.</li><li>Virtual manufacturing for lightweight materials and processes: &nbsp;Learn how to find the most efficient materials and manufacturing processes to achieve assemblies with optimal cost/quality ratio, ensuring correct performance.</li><li>Industrial metaverse for virtual build &amp; immersive product integration: &nbsp;Explore how XR technology breaks silos, fostering collaboration between design, manufacturing, and maintenance teams.</li></ul>Take advantage of this opportunity to hear customer stories, engage in insightful panel discussions, and witness firsthand the transformative capabilities of Virtual Prototyping in shaping the future of EV industry solutions.&nbsp;<a href="https://esiliveautomotive.vfairs.com/en/#agenda" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" class="button-main-action">Check out the agenda below.</a><table border="1" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" width="600" id="isPasted"><tbody><tr><td width="100%" colspan="3" valign="top">ESI LIVE AUTOMOTIVE 2024 AGENDA</td></tr><tr><td width="19%" valign="top">Date &amp; Time</td><td width="30.833333333333332%" valign="top">Track theme</td><td width="50.166666666666664%" valign="top">Details</td></tr><tr><td width="19%" valign="top">October 24, 02:00 pm CET</td><td width="30.833333333333332%" valign="top">Optimizing EV safety, comfort, and durability.&nbsp;</td><td width="50.166666666666664%" valign="top">The sessions cover key topics in automotive design and compliance. The first session discusses maintaining safety regulations and optimizing vehicle design within virtual homologation. The second session focuses on the effective design, manufacturing, testing, and pre-certification of vehicle seating. The final session explores the use of a digital thread in the design process of complex systems.</td></tr><tr><td width="19%" valign="top">October 24, 02:00 pm CET</td><td width="30.833333333333332%" valign="top">Empowering EV innovation: virtual manufacturing for lightweight materials and processes.&nbsp;</td><td width="50.166666666666664%" valign="top">The sessions focus on advancements in electric mobility and lightweight materials. The first session addresses the use of manufacturing simulations to evaluate performance in mega-casting components for electric vehicles. The second session discusses the challenges of using lightweight aluminum for stamping Class A panels. The final session covers innovative, high-efficiency components designed for electric and hydrogen vehicles.</td></tr><tr><td width="19%" valign="top">October 24, 02:00 pm CET</td><td width="30.833333333333332%" valign="top">Industrial metaverse for virtual build &amp; immersive product integration.&nbsp;</td><td width="50.166666666666664%" valign="top">The sessions explore integrating advanced virtual and immersive technologies in mobility and product development. The first session discusses how extended reality is shaping the future of mobility today. The second session focuses on enterprise virtuality and collaborative virtual builds. The final session examines human-centric process validation and immersive product integration.</td></tr></tbody></table><h3><img src="https://images.wevolver.com/eyJidWNrZXQiOiJ3ZXZvbHZlci1wcm9qZWN0LWltYWdlcyIsImtleSI6ImZyb2FsYS8xNzI1ODgzNDMxMDY1LXBkZi5qcGciLCJlZGl0cyI6eyJyZXNpemUiOnsid2lkdGgiOjk1MCwiZml0IjoiY292ZXIifX19" style="width: 100%px;" class="fr-fic fr-dib"></h3><h3 id="isPasted">Why you should attend:&nbsp;</h3>Attending ESI LIVE Automotive offers a unique experience for professionals in the automotive industry, particularly those focused on electric vehicle (EV) development. Participants will have the chance to engage with thought leaders, network with peers, and gain insights into the latest advancements in EV design, manufacturing, and sustainability.&nbsp;By attending, you'll not only stay ahead of industry shifts but also contribute to the critical conversations that are driving the electric vehicle revolution. This event is more than just an opportunity to learn—it's a chance to collaborate on groundbreaking ideas that will define the next era of mobility. Your presence and participation will help push the boundaries of what's possible, empowering innovation and fostering a sustainable transportation future.We look forward to seeing you there, as together, we can make a significant impact on the future of automotive technology and sustainable mobility.<h3>More details</h3>To attend the ESI Live Automotive event, <a href="https://esiliveautomotive.vfairs.com/en/registration?utm_source=wevolver&utm_medium=all&utm_campaign=registration" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">register here</a> - the event is free.&nbsp;<a href="https://esiliveautomotive.vfairs.com/en/registration?utm_source=wevolver&utm_medium=all&utm_campaign=registration" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" class="button-main-action">Register here.</a>The vFairs platform used for the event is accessible from any device or browser. If you have any questions, you can email event@esi-group.com.&nbsp;We encourage you to share the registration link with others who may benefit from the event. Your registration information will be used to create your login credentials and follow up. For more details, you can check the <a href="https://www.esi-group.com/privacy-terms-of-use" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">terms and conditions.</a>

Register for the live event, October 24th, 2-4 PM CET


ESI LIVE automotive digital event: Empowering innovation through virtual prototyping

<h2 id="isPasted">New whitepaper: How Augmented Reality is redefining product development.</h2>Augmented Reality (AR) is not just a tool; it's a transformative force that is reshaping many processes in business. Production companies, in particular, benefit from AR because they can leverage its benefits along their entire value chain, from product development to manufacturing, logistics, marketing, customer service, and employee training.&nbsp;In the recent white paper from HoloLight, 'AR as a Booster for Industry 4.0,' you can explore the ways in which AR can have a significant transformative impact.&nbsp;Key highlights of the whitepaper:<ul><li dir="ltr">Learn how companies can use AR to increase the quality and productivity of their entire process chain</li><li dir="ltr">Understand what a consistent Augmented Reality strategy can look like and how to implement one.</li><li dir="ltr">Discover how well-known companies are already successfully using AR through detailed case studies.&nbsp;</li></ul>Don't miss out on these valuable insights. Get your copy of the white paper now by filling out the simple form below.&nbsp;<iframe width="540" height="375" src="https://c8056756.sibforms.com/serve/MUIFADOuIpMi5uFqx4kFxnXAbJZjZ1rUhokyPyY5Gp274m07aPRe_mHj4suO_nbj5UL9pW_5_ZZjaQ4EEZIFaUvd5IC7lmHPF6BWNRRNr2B4VDWQnWiaXJryDfxLFUcoT3rcjrTS5wGXTe8-vzsC_VH_WlW-wMaqXePqpXvK7TIfAip3geYqjBtdVfWGosE6vOLpwiW608f78-d6" frameborder="0" scrolling="auto" allowfullscreen="" style="display: block;margin-left: auto;margin-right: auto;max-width: 100%;" class="fr-draggable"></iframe><a href="https://hololight.com/lns-group-saves-prototyping-costs-for-machine-tools/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">LNS Group</a>, a Swiss leader in machine tool peripherals, is driving immersive technologies throughout its product development cycles. From early design reviews with global stakeholders to risk assessment and handover to operations, the company is reducing time-to-market by 3 months and saving $5,000 to $10,000 per prototype while improving product quality.LNS Group is a global Swiss machine tool peripherals specialist that operates four different product lines and has nine production sites across Switzerland, Italy, the UK, Taiwan, China, Japan, and the USA. The company has around 1,000 dedicated professionals worldwide and is known for its strong focus on research and development as well as its global presence. “The way we communicate is key to the success of the product,” emphasizes Jamie Towers, CTO of LNS. “You can’t really quantify it, but the most important thing in product development is to get buy-in from all the stakeholders and have everyone understand and agree on what we’re trying to accomplish as early as possible.”Easier said than done. The CTO and the innovation team recognized the early need to integrate industrial augmented and virtual reality (AR/VR) into their research and development processes to encourage better communication and collaboration among global teams and departments. “We chose the XR Engineering solution, <a href="https://hololight.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Hololight Space</a>, because it met our vision for adaptability and ease of use right from the start. We upload our designs to the cloud platform and simply start a collaborative meeting. In our industry, complexity often leads to resistance, but the solution’s straightforward functionality means our team can focus on pushing the boundaries of innovation without the frustration of dealing with cumbersome systems.”<h2>How LNS Group Engages Non-Design Teams with Augmented Reality for Better Outcomes</h2>LNS specializes in manufacturing bar feeders, chip conveyors, air filtration, and coolant management systems, &nbsp;essential for the automotive, watch, medical, and aerospace industries. The company follows a standard product development process. They start by reviewing market requirements, then proceed to the development phase, and finally return to the market for implementation.. “We’re 100% committed to delivering customer-focused products,” says Towers. “The only way to do that is to really work with the customer and the people who face the customer. That’s your sales team, that’s your customer service team. And those are the hardest people to engage when it comes to design reviews,” he adds with a smile.Non-design teams often struggle with the challenge of visualizing products from onscreen models alone. The difficulty of assessing scale, accessibility, and maintenance considerations from a 3D model on a 2D screen can create a gap in understanding the product in tangible terms, making it difficult to provide the concrete feedback engineers need to better tailor the product to customer needs. This gap often requires the creation and global distribution of multiple prototype versions, at significant financial and environmental cost. Hololight Space now provides a dynamic digital workspace for seamless interaction with 3D CAD data in both AR and VR environments. Users can visualize and work with their 3D content to review designs, plan a factory layout, perform quality assurance, or verify assembly processes. Data is streamed from powerful on-premises or cloud servers with Nvidia GRID GPUs to ensure high levels of security and high-quality visualization without the need for data optimization.<iframe width="640" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/pX3jw1FnRyw?&amp;wmode=opaque&amp;rel=0&amp;enablejsapi=1&amp;origin=https://www.wevolver.com" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="" class="fr-draggable" data-lf-form-tracking-inspected-kn9eq4roawkarlvp="true" data-lf-yt-playback-inspected-kn9eq4roawkarlvp="true" data-lf-vimeo-playback-inspected-kn9eq4roawkarlvp="true"></iframe> <h3>Use Case 1 – How LNS Group Uses AR for Worldwide Collaboration &amp; Design Reviews</h3>Using Hololight Space in the design process heralds a transformative shift. Teams can visualize products in real-world contexts, facilitating more accurate and comprehensive early-stage reviews. Tangible interaction with a product before it is physically created, leads to the development of more accurate initial prototypes, significantly shortening the iterative cycle of prototyping. “Visualizing our designs in AR and the real world helps us get valuable feedback from our sales and customer service teams on what might need to be tweaked to better meet customer needs. It also works very well with our customer service teams, such as checking the accessibility on the digital twin to see how we can service a particular product,” explains Brian Scruggs, Global Engineering Administrator at LNS. “We typically use Hololight Space to highlight key features that we need specific feedback on, and then everyone can look at the design together, we take notes, and we also use the live stream so everyone can follow along.”Including AR in the design review process not only improves communication but also enhances buy-in from stakeholders. “We are able to get products from the drawing board to market in a short period of time – from large developments with many stakeholders to smaller projects with small groups,” notes Scruggs. By removing the barriers to visualization, AR reduces the number of prototypes needed, thereby lowering costs and minimizing environmental impact. In addition, effective design reviews cultivate company-wide support, reducing the frustration often associated with late-stage design changes. “The ease of use is a critical point, having the backup and support behind it is also a key, and frankly the price point is right for what we need. For us, using Hololight Space is now like turning on a computer. It is second nature to us,” concludes Scruggs.<h2>Use Case 2 – How LNS Group Masters CE Compliance and Risk Assessment Across Borders</h2>Leveraging its global R&amp;D network, LNS usually designs products in one region and manufactures them in another.. The company manages CE compliance from Switzerland with the help of external consultants. This is an important step in the product development process and is often performed, along with a risk assessment, near the end of the prototyping phase.. “Changes – and there are almost always changes – can have a profound impact on the design, cost and overall concept of the product. As a result, compliance assessments introduced later in the process can add significant time to the schedule,” states Jamie Towers, CTO of LNS. “We were looking for a way to do risk assessment earlier in the design process, before we even built a prototype, not only internally but also with our external consultants.”Global Engineering Administrator Brian Scruggs elaborates, “To give an example, we had a project in China with a large machine tool manufacturer where the product would end up in Europe and instead of shipping a product to Switzerland, we decided to use Hololight Space to do a remote risk assessment with our external consultant. We did the risk assessment in Augmented Reality, discovered some changes that needed to be made, and were able to fix the mistakes before we ever built and shipped a product to Europe.” By avoiding shipping, travel, and building a prototype, LNS was able to save $5,000 to $10,000, while significantly reducing the environmental costs associated with building multiple prototype iterations. “We saved at least three months of project time by conducting early risk assessments and avoiding the need for later “patches” to the design,” reports Scruggs. “The result is not only a reduction in time and cost, but also a product that truly meets the practical considerations of the user.”<h2>Use Case 3 – How LNS Group Streamlines Operations Handover with Industrial Augmented Reality</h2>Finally, “handover to operations” is a pivotal moment. It’s the critical transition where all the plans, prototypes, and theoretical work are handed over to the teams that will implement them in the real world. Early involvement of the operations team is a good starting point for a successful handover. However, understanding complex operations from afar often leads to early production problems, and the travel costs of sending experts to different production sites can be significant.. In addition, internal frustration can result from a lack of understanding and cooperation during this crucial transition period, leading to delays and low morale. “I think it’s important to understand that there is usually some form of compromise when design changes are introduced late in the process,” says Scruggs.&nbsp;He adds: “For us, it’s about improving quality down to every sub-assembly. With Hololight Space, our operations teams in different regions can see in Augmented Reality how each assembly is created in real time. They can see the critical points and we can identify where there may be mistakes or confusion; it’s a collaborative effort to get better quality from day one, using immersive technologies to our advantage.” By enabling better collaboration across sites and geographies, AR improves the quality and speed of production ramp-up, ensuring a smoother transition from design to operation. The ability to work remotely with AR technology, especially when multiple international locations are involved, greatly reduces travel-related costs and time. In an era where efficiency and communication are paramount, Hololight Space is proving to be a key tool in transforming the handover of operations into a seamless and streamlined process.<h2>How LNS Group Is Getting User Buy-in and Planning New Use Cases</h2>To successfully integrate Augmented Reality into the product development process and gain user acceptance, Jamie Towers suggests limiting user interaction. &nbsp;“We usually have an AR-trained member in the room to help with the manipulations, and then we hand the glasses over to the user to just experience the design in AR. There are some people who are never fully comfortable until they actually have something in their hands. But overall, our people are definitely impressed with the technology. They see the value in the technology.”And the next project is just around the corner. “We’re investing in immersive technologies, and it’s natural to keep using them. This time we made a prototype with one configuration, and we’re going to use Hololight Space to show our customer a second, completely different configuration without having to produce a second prototype. Wherever we can find an advantage, we will use immersive technologies to optimize our product development lifecycle,” concludes Towers.Want to try Hololight Space for yourself? <a href="https://hololight.com/hololight-space-demo/" target="_blank">Contact us for a free trial.<iframe width="540" height="375" src="https://c8056756.sibforms.com/serve/MUIFADOuIpMi5uFqx4kFxnXAbJZjZ1rUhokyPyY5Gp274m07aPRe_mHj4suO_nbj5UL9pW_5_ZZjaQ4EEZIFaUvd5IC7lmHPF6BWNRRNr2B4VDWQnWiaXJryDfxLFUcoT3rcjrTS5wGXTe8-vzsC_VH_WlW-wMaqXePqpXvK7TIfAip3geYqjBtdVfWGosE6vOLpwiW608f78-d6" frameborder="0" scrolling="auto" allowfullscreen="" style="display: block;margin-left: auto;margin-right: auto;max-width: 100%;" class="fr-draggable"></iframe></a>

LNS Group, is using immersive technologies throughout its product development cycles. The company is reducing time-to-market by 3 months and saving $5,000 to $10,000 per prototype while improving product quality.


Industrial Augmented Reality-Driven Product Development Evolution

<h2 id="isPasted">New whitepaper: How Augmented Reality is redefining product development.</h2>Augmented Reality (AR) is not just a tool; it's a transformative force that is reshaping many processes in business. Production companies, in particular, benefit from AR because they can leverage its benefits along their entire value chain, from product development to manufacturing, logistics, marketing, customer service, and employee training.&nbsp;In the recent white paper from HoloLight, 'AR as a Booster for Industry 4.0,' you can explore the ways in which AR can have a significant transformative impact.&nbsp;Key highlights of the whitepaper:<ul><li dir="ltr">Learn how companies can use AR to increase the quality and productivity of their entire process chain</li><li dir="ltr">Understand what a consistent Augmented Reality strategy can look like and how to implement one.</li><li dir="ltr">Discover how well-known companies are already successfully using AR through detailed case studies.&nbsp;</li></ul>Don't miss out on these valuable insights. Get your copy of the white paper now by filling out the simple form below.&nbsp;<img src="https://s3-us-west-1.amazonaws.com/wevolver-project-images/froala%2F1739357287533-Untitled.png" style="width: 100%px;" class="fr-fic fr-dib"><iframe width="540" height="375" src="https://c8056756.sibforms.com/serve/MUIFADOuIpMi5uFqx4kFxnXAbJZjZ1rUhokyPyY5Gp274m07aPRe_mHj4suO_nbj5UL9pW_5_ZZjaQ4EEZIFaUvd5IC7lmHPF6BWNRRNr2B4VDWQnWiaXJryDfxLFUcoT3rcjrTS5wGXTe8-vzsC_VH_WlW-wMaqXePqpXvK7TIfAip3geYqjBtdVfWGosE6vOLpwiW608f78-d6" frameborder="0" scrolling="auto" allowfullscreen="" style="display: block;margin-left: auto;margin-right: auto;max-width: 100%;" class="fr-draggable"></iframe>“It’s just a gimmick for large projects. We don’t need anything from another galaxy to operate our plant”. Tobias Bauchrowitz, Head of Engineering at Bilfinger Engineering &amp; Maintenance, is familiar with the prejudices that new technologies like augmented reality often encounter: “I sensed that customers were a bit skeptical at first, but then the visualization usually speaks for itself.”&nbsp;With over 3,000 employees, Bilfinger Engineering &amp; Maintenance GmbH plans, maintains, repairs, and monitors plants in the process industry. The company is an industrial services market leader and a pioneer in the digitalization and optimization of processes for customers and the workforce.<blockquote>“Our aim is to meet customer needs and to provide decision-makers with the right information. Especially in the engineering sector, we saw a lot of potential for making planning and development processes more customer-friendly and efficient with augmented reality.” &nbsp;</blockquote>- Tobias Bauchrowitz, Leiter Engineering bei Bilfinger Engineering &amp; Maintenance<h1 dir="ltr">Requirements for AR Software</h1>Bilfinger Engineering &amp; Maintenance had been traditionally developing 3D models with its stakeholders and customers for new construction, conversion or plant modernization projects, either directly in the CAD software or via 3D PDF. “If 3D models are mapped on a two-dimensional plane, the spatial understanding can be deceptive, especially if the stakeholders rarely deal with 3D models,” Bauchrowitz says. The 1:1 scale and the comparison with reality were still missing. In many cases, the digital plans differed from reality in that the smallest details in the plant could not be planned correctly from the start – for example, whether a valve would be accessible at the planned location.&nbsp;It is important for the engineering manager to be able to visualize models in their original size and to have the flexibility to place them at the point of use. Other requirements for an Augmented Reality solution were that the software is easy to use, that CAD data (e.g., FBX, OBJ) can be imported smoothly, and that the entire model hierarchy can be mapped and manipulated – both in single and multi-user mode. After a multi-stage selection process with various solution providers, Bilfinger Engineering &amp; Maintenance finally chose Hololight’s Hololight Space AR software.<h1 dir="ltr">Augmented Reality for Engineers</h1>The Hololight Space AR engineering application allows engineers and industrial designers to visualize 3D CAD models in their original size as holograms via AR glasses, to merge these models with real components and to edit them in a real environment ­– at the target location. By bringing virtual content into reality, the software bridges the gap between virtual planning and what is ultimately real. “A plant is an investment. Customers want to know what they’re getting from us, right from the start,” Bauchrowitz says.&nbsp;“By visualizing true-to-scale 3D models in the actual plant as holograms, we can provide all stakeholders with a better understanding of the plant before it is constructed, while also creating a real wow effect.” Tobias Bauchrowitz, Leiter Engineering bei Bilfinger Engineering &amp; MaintenanceIn Hololight Space, 3D models can be instantly adapted to new situations on-site by adding QR codes. Users can individually select components from the hierarchy, move, rotate, and scale objects, and collaborate on virtual designs using the meeting function. All changes to the digital object can be saved and added later in the CAD system.&nbsp;“At the destination, we merge the virtual and real worlds, check space constraints, and can easily include on-site personnel such as the plant operator for feedback. The use of different perspectives helps us prevent potential complications or errors,”&nbsp;Bauchrowitz adds. “One feature we’re using more and more is to lay out cutting planes in real time to highlight and examine certain angles.”<img src="https://images.wevolver.com/eyJidWNrZXQiOiJ3ZXZvbHZlci1wcm9qZWN0LWltYWdlcyIsImtleSI6ImZyb2FsYS8xNzIzMDIwMjI5MTI3LWhvbG9saWdodCBiaWxpLmpwZyIsImVkaXRzIjp7InJlc2l6ZSI6eyJ3aWR0aCI6OTUwLCJmaXQiOiJjb3ZlciJ9fX0=" style="width: 100%px;" class="fr-fic fr-dib"><h1 dir="ltr">AR as a Key Technology&nbsp;</h1>Visualizing virtual designs at the intended location aids in planning and developing installations. It helps identify errors more quickly, gets stakeholders involved from the beginning, and reduces costs by streamlining decision-making and iterations. Engineers and customers can collaborate in Augmented Reality to sketch, discuss, and refine designs and ideas, which allows customers to assess if the system meets their on-site requirements and enables experts to plan and develop more efficiently.<blockquote>“Our goal is to make greater use of the AR solution within the Group. The potential of Augmented Reality to win over stakeholders and increase customer satisfaction is enormous.” - Tobias Bauchrowitz, Leiter Engineering bei Bilfinger Engineering &amp; Maintenance</blockquote>Learn more about how AR can have a significant transformative impact on production, customer service and collaboration. Download the latest whitepaper from Hololight below.&nbsp;<iframe width="540" height="375" src="https://c8056756.sibforms.com/serve/MUIFADOuIpMi5uFqx4kFxnXAbJZjZ1rUhokyPyY5Gp274m07aPRe_mHj4suO_nbj5UL9pW_5_ZZjaQ4EEZIFaUvd5IC7lmHPF6BWNRRNr2B4VDWQnWiaXJryDfxLFUcoT3rcjrTS5wGXTe8-vzsC_VH_WlW-wMaqXePqpXvK7TIfAip3geYqjBtdVfWGosE6vOLpwiW608f78-d6" frameborder="0" scrolling="auto" allowfullscreen="" style="display: block;margin-left: auto;margin-right: auto;max-width: 100%;" class="fr-draggable"></iframe>

Bilfinger Engineering & Maintenance has been effectively utilizing Augmented Reality (AR) in industrial plant engineering since 2019. AR enables seamless integration of customers and stakeholders into the design process, preventing costly errors in the early stages.

Enhancing decision-making processes in plant design through the use of augmented reality (AR)

In this episode, we discuss how BMW is leveraging augmented reality to design, manufacture, and service cars faster using Microsoft’s HoloLens glasses and a cloud based computer design solution called Hololight.

Podcast: BMW Makes Cars Faster With Augmented Reality

This article was discussed in our <a href="https://www.wevolver.com/profile/the.next.byte" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Next Byte podcast</a>.&nbsp;<iframe height="200px" width="100%" frameborder="no" scrolling="no" seamless="" src="https://player.simplecast.com/6d409fb4-f5fe-4b00-bc93-dd1a226c63ed?dark=false" class="fr-draggable" data-gtm-yt-inspected-23="true" data-lf-form-tracking-inspected-kn9eq4roawkarlvp="true" data-lf-yt-playback-inspected-kn9eq4roawkarlvp="true" data-lf-vimeo-playback-inspected-kn9eq4roawkarlvp="true" data-gtm-yt-inspected-24="true"></iframe> The full article will continue below.<table style="width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td style="width: 100%;"><h2>New whitepaper: AR as a Booster for Industry 4.0,</h2>In the recent white paper from HoloLight, 'AR as a Booster for Industry 4.0,' you can explore the ways in which AR can have a significant transformative impact.&nbsp;Key highlights of the whitepaper:<ul><li dir="ltr">Learn how companies can use AR to increase the quality and productivity of their entire process chain</li><li dir="ltr">Understand what a consistent Augmented Reality strategy can look like and how to implement one.</li><li dir="ltr">Discover how well-known companies are already successfully using AR through detailed case studies.&nbsp;</li></ul>Don't miss out on these valuable insights. Get your copy of the white paper now by filling out the simple form below.&nbsp;</td></tr></tbody></table><iframe width="540" height="375" src="https://c8056756.sibforms.com/serve/MUIFADOuIpMi5uFqx4kFxnXAbJZjZ1rUhokyPyY5Gp274m07aPRe_mHj4suO_nbj5UL9pW_5_ZZjaQ4EEZIFaUvd5IC7lmHPF6BWNRRNr2B4VDWQnWiaXJryDfxLFUcoT3rcjrTS5wGXTe8-vzsC_VH_WlW-wMaqXePqpXvK7TIfAip3geYqjBtdVfWGosE6vOLpwiW608f78-d6" frameborder="0" scrolling="auto" allowfullscreen="" style="display: block;margin-left: auto;margin-right: auto;max-width: 100%;" class="fr-draggable"></iframe> In a quest to redefine automotive prototyping and concept evaluation, BMW Group has embraced cutting-edge augmented reality (AR) technology at its Munich headquarters.Running on Microsoft´s <a href="https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/hololens" target="_blank">HoloLens 2</a> data goggles, the AR Engineering Software Hololight Space from Hololight allows real geometries—on a vehicle body, for instance – to be overlaid with true-to-scale holographic 3D models. Thus, a range of concept variants and assembly processes for future series vehicles can be assessed flexibly and cost-efficiently.<h3 dir="ltr">Vehicle Concepts Visualized in 3D</h3>Vehicles and their components are visualized via the AR Software Hololight Space, which is linked to the BMW Group’s product data management system. The integrated remote rendering technology <a href="https://hololight.com/products/hololight-stream-software-development-kit/" target="_blank">Hololight Stream</a> enables streaming of the entire AR application. This means that the computing power does not have to come from the AR glasses themselves, but can be provided from the cloud or a high-performance, own controlled server. The data also never resides on the mobile device. A crucial security feature in the event of loss of the glasses or hacker attacks.<iframe width="640" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/JA7pixCQCCw?&amp;wmode=opaque&amp;rel=0&amp;enablejsapi=1&amp;origin=https://www.wevolver.com" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="" class="fr-draggable" data-lf-form-tracking-inspected-kn9eq4roawkarlvp="true" data-lf-yt-playback-inspected-kn9eq4roawkarlvp="true" data-lf-vimeo-playback-inspected-kn9eq4roawkarlvp="true" data-gtm-yt-inspected-23="true" id="940844127" title="Case Study: BMW Group - Virtual Prototyping | Hololight Space" data-gtm-yt-inspected-24="true">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</iframe>In the new workflow, the vehicle expert loads CAD files of components from the web-based database into the Hololight Space application. Using AR glasses, he can visualize the CAD data in 3D and their original size in a realistic environment. The AR application is controlled by hand, allowing direct interaction with virtual components.&nbsp;With the AR application, a simple hand movement is enough to modify not only the size but also the position and angle of components. In addition, cross-sections can be created in real time to provide a view of the vehicle’s inner structures. Another advantage is the ability to work collaboratively. People at different locations around the world can now employ multi-user mode to team up and review designs and concepts together, as well as identify any errors.<h2 dir="ltr">Newly Gained Efficiency Factor with Augmented Reality</h2>Using true-to-scale visualization and interaction with concepts and prototypes previously created in CAD programs, engineers can now immediately understand the accessibility, installation options, and visibility of relevant assembly points in complex systems. Above all, the superimposition of real geometry with holographic 3D models enables them to evaluate different variants of a concept in minutes. The BMW Group has thus achieved time savings of up to one year on vehicle module validation.<img src="https://images.wevolver.com/eyJidWNrZXQiOiJ3ZXZvbHZlci1wcm9qZWN0LWltYWdlcyIsImtleSI6ImZyb2FsYS8xNzIxNzQ1MDQxMzM3LVA5MDQwMDE4OV9oaWdoUmVzX2F1Z21lbnRlZC1yZWFsLmpwZyIsImVkaXRzIjp7InJlc2l6ZSI6eyJ3aWR0aCI6OTUwLCJmaXQiOiJjb3ZlciJ9fX0=" style="width: 100%px;" class="fr-fic fr-dib">Holograms can be overlaid with real geometry (Copyright BMW Group).<h2 dir="ltr">How Hololight Space can significantly benefit the automotive industry.</h2><h3 dir="ltr">Prototyping and Design</h3>Enhanced Visualization and Interaction: AR/VR technologies allow engineers and designers to create and interact with high-fidelity 3D models of vehicle components and assemblies. This capability enables a comprehensive evaluation of design elements, fit, and ergonomics without the need for physical prototypes. For example, designers can view and manipulate a digital twin of a car interior to assess user experience, identify potential issues, and make real-time adjustments. This not only accelerates the design process but also improves the overall quality and innovation of the vehicle design.<h3 dir="ltr">Time and Cost Savings</h3>Reduction of Development Cycles: Implementing AR/VR in the automotive industry can significantly cut down the time required for vehicle concept validation. Traditional prototyping involves multiple iterations of physical models, which is both time-consuming and expensive. AR/VR allows for rapid iterations and instant feedback, facilitating quicker decision-making and reducing the overall development cycle. BMW, for instance, reported that using AR/VR reduced their concept validation time by up to a year, translating to substantial cost savings and a faster time-to-market for new models.<h3 dir="ltr">Enhanced Collaboration</h3>Real-Time Remote Collaboration: AR/VR platforms enable seamless collaboration between geographically dispersed teams. Engineers, designers, and stakeholders can simultaneously access and interact with the same virtual prototype, discuss modifications, and make collective decisions in real time. This collaborative environment reduces the chances of miscommunication and errors that often occur in traditional workflows. Additionally, it fosters innovation by allowing diverse teams to contribute their expertise, ensuring that the final product benefits from a wide range of insights and perspectives.<h3 dir="ltr">Training and Maintenance</h3>Immersive Training Experiences: AR/VR technologies provide highly immersive and interactive training modules for automotive technicians and assembly line workers. Trainees can practice assembly, repair, and maintenance tasks in a virtual environment that closely mimics real-world scenarios. This hands-on experience enhances learning and retention, making technicians more proficient and reducing the likelihood of mistakes. Furthermore, AR/VR training can be tailored to different skill levels, ensuring that all employees receive the appropriate level of instruction and can perform their tasks efficiently.<h3 dir="ltr">The latest whitepaper from Hololight explains the impact of AR on the future of manufacturing and production. &nbsp;Get access now via the form below.&nbsp;</h3><iframe width="540" height="375" src="https://c8056756.sibforms.com/serve/MUIFADOuIpMi5uFqx4kFxnXAbJZjZ1rUhokyPyY5Gp274m07aPRe_mHj4suO_nbj5UL9pW_5_ZZjaQ4EEZIFaUvd5IC7lmHPF6BWNRRNr2B4VDWQnWiaXJryDfxLFUcoT3rcjrTS5wGXTe8-vzsC_VH_WlW-wMaqXePqpXvK7TIfAip3geYqjBtdVfWGosE6vOLpwiW608f78-d6" frameborder="0" scrolling="auto" allowfullscreen="" style="display: block;margin-left: auto;margin-right: auto;max-width: 100%;" class="fr-draggable"></iframe>

BMW Group has embraced augmented reality (AR) technology at its Munich headquarters to redefine automotive prototyping and concept evaluation


BMW accelerates concept evaluations with  industrial augmented reality and virtual reality

Augmented Reality (AR) is not just a tool; it's a transformative force that is reshaping many processes in business. Production companies, in particular, benefit from AR because they can leverage its benefits along their entire value chain, from product development to manufacturing, logistics, marketing, customer service, and employee training.&nbsp;In the recent white paper from HoloLight, 'AR as a Booster for Industry 4.0,' you can explore the ways in which AR can have a significant transformative impact.&nbsp;Key highlights of the whitepaper:<ul><li dir="ltr">Learn how companies can use AR to increase the quality and productivity of their entire process chain</li><li dir="ltr">Understand what a consistent Augmented Reality strategy can look like and how to implement one.</li><li dir="ltr">Discover how well-known companies are already successfully using AR through detailed case studies.&nbsp;</li></ul>Don't miss out on these valuable insights. Get your copy of the white paper now by filling out the simple form below.&nbsp;<img src="https://images.wevolver.com/eyJidWNrZXQiOiJ3ZXZvbHZlci1wcm9qZWN0LWltYWdlcyIsImtleSI6ImZyb2FsYS8xNzM5MzU2MjYxMTY5LVVudGl0bGVkLnBuZyIsImVkaXRzIjp7InJlc2l6ZSI6eyJ3aWR0aCI6OTUwLCJmaXQiOiJjb3ZlciJ9fX0=" style="width: 100%px;" class="fr-fic fr-dib"><iframe width="540" height="375" src="https://c8056756.sibforms.com/serve/MUIFADOuIpMi5uFqx4kFxnXAbJZjZ1rUhokyPyY5Gp274m07aPRe_mHj4suO_nbj5UL9pW_5_ZZjaQ4EEZIFaUvd5IC7lmHPF6BWNRRNr2B4VDWQnWiaXJryDfxLFUcoT3rcjrTS5wGXTe8-vzsC_VH_WlW-wMaqXePqpXvK7TIfAip3geYqjBtdVfWGosE6vOLpwiW608f78-d6" frameborder="0" scrolling="auto" allowfullscreen="" style="display: block;margin-left: auto;margin-right: auto;max-width: 100%;" class="fr-draggable"></iframe>Augmented Reality (AR) presents significant opportunities to revolutionize existing processes across industries. Despite our three-dimensional physical world, most data is two-dimensional, constrained to screens, creating a gap between the real and digital realms. AR effectively bridges this gap by overlaying digital data onto physical objects and environments, placing information directly within its application context. This integration enhances the assimilation, understanding, and targeted processing of information.AR is poised to become a continuous interface between humans and machines across various sectors. While many consumers are familiar with AR through entertainment applications, its potential in business and industry is even more transformative. Forward-thinking companies are already leveraging AR throughout the industrial value chain, including product development, manufacturing, logistics, marketing, service, and training. This technology is driving significant improvements in quality and productivity across these domains.In practice, AR enhances how users visualize information, follow instructions, and interact with products. Moving forward, the strategic application of AR will be pivotal for companies aiming to maintain competitive market positions. Integrating AR into business strategies and processes is crucial, and companies must explore AR’s full potential and evaluate its impact on customers, products, and the entire value chain.<img src="https://images.wevolver.com/eyJidWNrZXQiOiJ3ZXZvbHZlci1wcm9qZWN0LWltYWdlcyIsImtleSI6ImZyb2FsYS8xNzIxNzIxMzgyMjk4LUdhYnJpZWxlMl9zaW1vbnRvcGxha19jb21faG9sb2xpZ2h0X1NUTzM5NzgtY29weS0xMDI0eDY4My5qcGciLCJlZGl0cyI6eyJyZXNpemUiOnsid2lkdGgiOjk1MCwiZml0IjoiY292ZXIifX19" style="width: 100%px;" class="fr-fic fr-dib"><h3>Developing an Effective Augmented Reality Strategy for Companies</h3>A well-conceived Augmented Reality strategy is essential for companies aiming to harness its benefits. Companies should determine how AR can support the differentiation of their product and service offerings. For instance, AR can enhance product features and provide customers with more information, thereby increasing customer retention and loyalty. Additionally, AR can improve product user-friendliness, support services, and provide valuable feedback on product usage, offering insights for further development.<h3>Internal Expertise vs. External Partnerships in AR Development</h3>Companies must decide whether to develop in-house AR expertise or collaborate with external partners. While qualified AR specialists are scarce, having knowledge in user experience and user interface design (UX/UI), digital modeling, and AR content management is crucial. Establishing specialized teams to develop and maintain AR content can be beneficial.However, despite many companies developing their AR expertise, they often underutilize the technology’s full potential. Managers frequently face the decision of whether to hire and train AR staff or to engage with specialized software and service providers. Investing in AR specialists as strategic assets makes sense when AR is central to a business strategy. Conversely, for companies where AR is important but not critical, partnering with external providers can be more practical. Developing comprehensive AR technologies involves significant challenges, time, and costs.Initially, limited AR technology and service providers led many companies to rely on in-house capabilities. Today, the market has expanded with vendors offering turnkey AR solutions, making it increasingly difficult for companies to keep pace with advancements. Therefore, strategic decisions regarding AR development and implementation are paramount for leveraging its full potential and ensuring competitive advantage.<h3 id="isPasted">Partnering with HoloLight for Augmented Reality Success</h3>Given the complexities and strategic importance of implementing AR, choosing the right partner is crucial. HoloLight stands out for companies looking to harness the full potential of AR technology. With a strong focus on industrial applications, HoloLight offers cutting-edge solutions that enhance product development, manufacturing, and maintenance processes. Their expertise in creating immersive AR experiences ensures that digital information is seamlessly integrated into the physical world, providing users with intuitive and effective tools.HoloLight's comprehensive suite of AR products and services, including their high-performance streaming technology and user-friendly development environment, enables companies to accelerate their AR projects while maintaining high standards of quality and efficiency. By partnering with HoloLight, businesses can leverage advanced AR capabilities to improve productivity, optimize workflows, and gain a competitive edge in the market.Learn more about the impact AR can have on business and engineering processes in the whitepaper, 'AR as a Booster for Industry 4.0:<iframe width="540" height="375" src="https://c8056756.sibforms.com/serve/MUIFADOuIpMi5uFqx4kFxnXAbJZjZ1rUhokyPyY5Gp274m07aPRe_mHj4suO_nbj5UL9pW_5_ZZjaQ4EEZIFaUvd5IC7lmHPF6BWNRRNr2B4VDWQnWiaXJryDfxLFUcoT3rcjrTS5wGXTe8-vzsC_VH_WlW-wMaqXePqpXvK7TIfAip3geYqjBtdVfWGosE6vOLpwiW608f78-d6" frameborder="0" scrolling="auto" allowfullscreen="" style="display: block;margin-left: auto;margin-right: auto;max-width: 100%;" class="fr-draggable"></iframe>

virtual reality (VR)

Profiles