System Architecture for Extended Reality and Hybrid Learning Factory Environments

Increasing digitalization enables new designs for learning factories integrating concepts for remote learning as well as extended reality for virtual and hybrid collaboration. In connection to a learning platform, hybrid and virtual learning environments can provide several innovative learning settings combining real infrastructure, such as machines, with virtual enrichments and fully virtualized spaces. While incorporating great potential to widen the availability of learning factories, the hybrid integration of learning platforms can be challenging and imposes further demands on teaching staff. Against this background, a system architecture has been developed to support the setup and operation of extended reality and hybrid learning factory environments. The system architecture incorporates four pillars designated as XR Factory, VR Factory, 3D Factory and 3D Lab, each enabling different features but originating from the same backend. In addition to bringing together theoretical, practical and virtually supported teaching and learning via one platform, it is designed to enable instructors without a programming or XR background to set up hybrid learning spaces through the 3D Lab. The system architecture will initially be implemented in a learning factory focusing on lithium-ion battery cell production.