Virtual systems to train and assist control applications in future factories

This contribution describes the use of virtual systems to train and assist control applications in the industry. The general requirements for virtual systems in the industry are collected. In this paper, 3 possible and interesting use cases of virtual systems in industry are developed: PLC (Programmable Logic Controller) and automation training, virtual commissioning and Human operator training. It is shown that video games technology can involve original solutions in matter of simulation improving human “situation awareness”. All the applications developed in this paper can be summarized with these words: Play for virtual to act for real!