Germany: Playground Design through Virtual Reality

Since Virtual Reality (VR) technology has made its way into the leisure and entertainment industry and more and more leisure facilities have been opening up new VR attractions for visitors (cf. our VR special in EAP, 3/17), more and more manufacturing companies are taking advantage of this technology, especially in the field of product development and design. Recently, Germany’s Berliner Seilfabrik has introduced Virtual Reality to its products development and design procedures so that new play equipment and also complete playgrounds can be tested and optimized even before production begins.

“The great advantage of VR is that products can be experienced before there is even a prototype. We draw our ideas into a computer system and try out their appeal in a virtual realm. This enables us to make significant changes in an early stage of development […],” explained David Koehler, Managing Partner of Berliner Seilfabrik. Right now, the company’s team is working on a new “spatial network”, including a climbing tower of more than seven meters height as well as a three-dimensional climbing net.

Customers take advantage of the opportunity to explore a playground in a virtual environment equal to the site where the project is to be realized – e.g., the colors of the material can easily be changed “by only one click”. “Thanks to VR, the product turns into an experience even before the customer has decided to order it. All important questions in relation to the site, color and possible combinations with other playground equipment can easily be cleared,” added Koehler. Berliner Seilfabrik will present their new VR technology options at its booth at this year’s International Trade Fair for Amenity Areas, Sports and Pool Facilities (FSB) in Cologne. (eap)