VR FACTORY

The main challenge for Lafarge was to adopt the virtual reality technology to demonstrate the current operation in the factory compound, as well as to introduce a 3D graphic representation of the recently installed calcinator. Additionally, the client wanted to showcase safety procedures when working at heights, that workers had to learn and follow.

Another challenge was to introduce the factory using the latest VR technology that provides immersive experiences to visitors at Lafarge Open Day. The visitors were members of the community, media, clients and partners. During the festive event, friends of Lafarge tested the app and learned about different segments of cement production in an interactive environment.

The VR application provided visualization of the safety procedures for work at heights, and navigation through the factory compound showcasing different parts of the cement production process.

In terms of safety, app users could click on personal safety equipment and see all the prerequisite safety tools that each individual worker needed: from gloves, helmets, glasses, suits, harnesses, to shoes. Then, the work at heights was demonstrated in the form of an authentic, 360-degree visualization.

Another scenario that was important to consider was how raw materials were extracted from the quarry. Users could view the blast video while different metrics were shown, such as the average output, yearly production, bucket size, etc.

When it comes to the content related to clinker production and cement kiln, it was possible to click on the main content section to see the main parts of the kiln and calcinator represented by 3D models in a virtual environment. The user was able to see different metrics: the alternative fuel rate and daily cement production. The real measurements could be shown in VR.

A 360 degree video was used to display the cement packaging with overlaid basic interactive product info. The inside of the factory was realistically filmed with all the production processes included.

The app was created both for Samsung GearVR and HTC Vive, mobile phone and PC platforms respectively, enabling visualisation with different levels of details in VR environment and different types of interaction.

The content of the Lafarge VR app could be accessed in the format of 360 video, 360 photo, 3D graphics, and different interactive elements.

This VR app demonstrated different scenarios where VR technology could be employed. The scenarios could be internal, such as for employee training and as part of HR procedures, or external, to demonstrate to the clients and the public different aspects of cement production and use case scenarios.