Northrop Grumman Implementing Extended Reality (XR) Technology for Enhanced Design Productivity
Taking a Peek into the Future of Manufacturing: The Highly Immersive Virtual Environment (HIVE)
Ever since I first dove into the world of augmented/mixed/virtual reality (XR) back in 2016, I've been fascinated with the potential of this technology, especially as it pertains to the manufacturing industry.
Last March, we shed light on Ford's innovative use of augmented reality (AR) for training purposes at its Rawsonville Components Plant near Detroit. This month, we were fortunate enough to attend Realize Live, held in Detroit by Siemens Digital Industries Software, and were highly impressed by HIVE – a groundbreaking technology developed by Sibo Chou at Northrop Grumman. Chou's work earned him the 2025 Innovation Leader Award.
HIVE, short for Highly Immersive Virtual Environment, meshes motion capture technology with Siemens Process Simulate software to produce simulations that assess whether operators can navigate through various sections of an aircraft during assembly with minimum hassle. This indirectly informs design for manufacturing (DFM) practices, ergonomics studies, and the development of virtual reality (VR) simulations.
On the horizon, we'll share more about Northrop Grumman's application of Siemens software in optimizing DFM and employing simulations to decrease the time spent on preliminary testing before transitioning to physical tests. In the meantime, we invite you to check out HIVE and its far-reaching benefits.
The Impact of HIVE on DFM and Ergonomics Studies
- Design Enhancement: HIVE gives manufacturers the power to simulate and analyze the ease of access to components during assembly. This enables them to refine product designs and manufacturing processes for greater efficiency and improved working conditions.
- Ergonomic Advancements: The technology helps identify potential ergonomic issues at the design stage. By virtually simulating the assembly process, manufacturers can ensure that operators can perform tasks comfortably and safely, minimizing the risks of injuries and boosting overall worker well-being.
The Integration of Siemens Software
HIVE takes full advantage of Siemens Process Simulate software to create realistic simulations. This integration allows for:
- Virtual Reality Experiences: Siemens' software supports the creation of lifelike virtual environments, where manufacturers can safely test their designs before building physical prototypes.
- Motion Capture Technology: Incorporating motion capture technology with Siemens software heightens the accuracy and realism of the simulations. It captures the movements and interactions of operators, enabling manufacturers to make data-driven decisions to enhance designs for increased manufacturability and ergonomics.
In essence, HIVE's use of Siemens software within the manufacturing industry contributes to more efficient designs, improved ergonomics, and streamlined testing processes, ultimately leading to more productive and comfortable work environments for all.
The integration of Siemens Software empowers HIVE to generate lifelike virtual environments, enhancing the manufacturing industry by enabling manufacturers to safely test designs and reduce physical prototyping (Finance and technology). Moreover, the combination of Siemens Process Simulate software with motion capture technology increases the accuracy of simulations, identifying potential ergonomic issues during the design stage and refining product designs for greater efficiency and improved working conditions (Industry and ergonomics).
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