_____________________________________________________________________________________________________________ VR
/ AR
Virtual money
In simple terms, VR is a computer-generated environment with scenes and objects that appear to be real, making the user feel immersed in that environment. The key technology is the VR headset, which covers the eyes and ears and effectively blanks out the real world. Critically, the computergenerated environment can be an exact replica of a real-world environment.
The VR market is predicted to grow dramatically over the next few years, from $ 15 billion in 2024 to $ 38 billion by 2029, according to market specialists Markets and Markets. This is a Compound Annual Growth Rate( CAGR) of almost 20 percent. Some analysts are even more bullish, and it’ s easy to see why.
A key driver of that growth is the ability to simulate real world environments, which it would otherwise be impractical, disruptive, or expensive to experience.
Medicines manufacturing is a prime example of such an environment.
What did VR ever do for us?
With VR it is possible to learn a wide range of vital practices, without being in a real facility. Cleaning is an example of a simple, yet vitally important skill.
Much of the core training is about orientation, building confidence, familiarity, and process knowledge, so VR is a highly efficient and cost-effective delivery method. Training time is on-demand, unlimited, and can be repeated at will.
Critically, training can be standardized across geographies and sites, and there’ s no limit on class sizes. From cleanrooms to complex manufacturing tools, a VR-based tour of a real-world facility allows you to explore every corner with unprecedented detail and precision.
The VR environment used in the Resilience training program is based on one of the most advanced facilities in the country, the Cell & Gene Therapy Catapult’ s manufacturing center in Stevenage.
Conclusions
VR technology will continue to evolve, to become a key enabler for training in industry and manufacturing. The leading payers are developing wireless HD headsets, using ever more powerful processors. They will undoubtedly soon integrate AI, and 5G will allow more devices and larger communities to be connected.
For advanced medicines manufacturing, this means even better training and an even more exciting and engaging career path for young people. ■
Ivan Wall www. resilience-skills. com
Ivan Wall is Professor of Regenerative Medicine at the University of Birmingham and co-director of Resilience- the UK’ s Medicines Manufacturing Skills Centre of Excellence. RESILIENCE is the major focus in his current academic role. As Co-Director he brings together leading experts in industry skills training and leads the adoption of creative new approaches to meet rapidly evolving sector skills needs.
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