Immersive VR training for electricians

Siemens is collaborating with 3D software platform BILT to provide immersive, step-by-step training for electricians.

The two companies have designed their electrical instruction guides in the form of spatial models for Apple Vision Pro, Apple’s 3D camera.

“This is a great example as to how we are maximising digitalisation to enable the next generation of electricians,” said Andreas Matthé, CEO Electrical Products at Siemens Smart Infrastructure.

“The ability to pick a digital representation of electrical equipment and work with it in the physical space in front of you transforms the educational experience, creating a safer, low-cost and innovative way of learning.”

Siemens’ first product assembly and installation guides available on BILT on Apple Vision Pro include Siemens Smart Infrastructure’s Class 14 NEMA motor starter, designed to control and protect motors applied in industrial processes, and the P5 Power Distribution Panel. The latter is used in a variety of commercial construction applications to safely distribute power within a building.¹

Apple Vision Pro user view of BILT 3D immersive instructions shows a digital rendering of Siemens P5 power panel and text window next to the real panel for side-by-side guided work.

Via Apple Vision Pro’s ultra-high-resolution display system, BILT provides users with a photorealistic digital twin combining the real and digital worlds. Users can perform natural, intuitive gestures with their eyes, hands and voice to interact with each element of the product, enlarge or minimise parts, and see animated step-by-step assembly instructions.

To further the partnership and accelerate applications globally, BILT will become the newest addition to Siemens’ Xcelerator Ecosystem and Marketplace. Siemens Xcelerator is a digital business platform that includes a network of the company’s partners, where industrial clients from around the world can search for solutions that suit their needs. As part of Siemens Xcelerator, BILT will now be available as a readymade solution for speeding digital transformation and enabling easier, faster learning, at scale.

“Closing the skills gap and empowering the next generation of electricians is what we at Siemens aim for. By partnering with innovative companies like BILT, we are revolutionising the learning experience,” said Siemens Chief Technology Officer Peter Koerte. “We are excited to welcome BILT as the newest partner in our Siemens Xcelerator ecosystem — further expanding our transformative workforce offerings together.”

Siemens is planning to introduce several additional products to BILT for Apple Vision Pro including its smart home energy management portfolio of products, InHab, as well as power distribution switchboards designed for electric vehicle charging applications.

“Siemens is an industry innovator,” said Nate Henderson, Chairman and CEO of BILT. “They’re making it possible for apprentices and new electricians to upskill faster, install with confidence and follow safety guidelines more easily. BILT for Apple Vision Pro enables them to provide tactical and intuitive training that fits the needs of a new generation of learners.”

_{1. Both products have the UL standard and are focused on the North American market and other countries that use the UL standard.}

Top image caption: A man wearing an Apple Vision Pro next to a Siemens P5 power panel. He is looking at a digital overlay of BILT immersive instructions including a 3D rendering of the panel and a text window.