Design and Evaluation of a Virtual Reality-Based Forklift Simulator for Skill Development and Performance Assessment
摘要
This work presents the development and preliminary evaluation of a virtual reality simulator for forklift operator training. The system, developed using Unity, integrates immersive visualization through a Meta Quest headset with realistic manual interaction via a steering wheel and a single-hand joystick setup, replicating the physical controls commonly used in real forklift vehicles. Structured around mission-based scenarios, the simulator enables users to execute typical warehouse operations under varying environmental and logistical conditions. A pilot study was conducted with five novice participants to assess usability and perceived training effectiveness. Evaluation metrics included the number of operational errors and responses to a satisfaction questionnaire. Results indicate a positive user experience, with a clear decrease in error rates across missions and high scores in realism, ease of use, and educational utility. These findings support the simulator’s potential as a safe, accessible, and effective training tool for industrial logistics environments. Future work will focus on expanding the scenario set and conducting broader validation studies with professional users.