# Development of a Virtual Reality-Based System for Simulating Welding Processes
###### Abstract
introduced a mobile arc welding learning app using mobile technology and enhanced with augmented reality for learning arc welding [17]. [PERSON] et al. proposed a haptic arc welding training method based on VR and haptic guidance. The training system mainly consists of three parts: a phantom desktop haptic device with six degrees of freedom (DOF) of position sensing and three DOF of force feedback, a virtual arc welding model, and a weld training model [18]. The virtual reality environment is a simulation-based method used to help engineers make decisions and establish controls by simulating various engineering activities, such as assembly, production line operations, and machining [19]. [PERSON] et al. applied virtual assembly tools for improving product design [20] In their study, with the integration of computer-aided design/computer-aided manufacturing (CAD/CAM) and computer-aided engineering (CAE) systems, sophisticated geometric models can be analyzed in a virtual environment. This is essential for the analyses of products that are difficult to access, too dangerous, or too expensive to practice on in real life. Firstly, three-dimensional solid models of the components of the grill plate assembly were created using CAD software, and these models were then converted into a standard triangle language (STL) file format in order to use in a computer software called DYNAMO. DYNAMO was used to establish the assembly sequence. The acceptable assembly sequence was examined for changes to produce an optimum sequence with a minimum assembly time. An application of a virtual assembly tool was demonstrated, and the assembly time was reduced by 3 s.  
Another virtual reality-based system was developed by [PERSON] et al. using the Unity3D platform [21]. The geographic information system is obtained by global positioning system (GPS) measurements. Then, all the geographical entities are converted to three-dimensional (3D) models by AutoCAD and 3 ds Max software. These 3D models are imported into Unity3D and programmed with Java script language to achieve game objects and scenes. The scenes are integrated and published on the network. The attribute data of the study area are stored by MySQL, which is connected with the Unity game platform by the external interface. From analyzing the virtual reality systems mentioned above, we can recognize that for carrying out VR-based systems, core technologies should be used as follows: real-time 3D computer graphics, wide-angle stereoscopic displays, viewer tracking, hand and gesture tracking, binaural sound, haptic feedback, and voice input/output; the first three technologies are mandatory [22]. For programing the VR systems, [PERSON] et al. introduced a review on the capabilities of different computational software for designing VR applications, such as Unity3D, Unreal Engine, and hardware devices for implementing VR applications [23]. Other tools were also used for designing VR applications, such as LabVIEW [24], VIRTOOLS [25; 26], and Vuforia tracking engine [27]. From the literature review and inheriting the research results of the research groups presented above, we propose a virtual reality system for simulating three welding processes, namely the SMAW, MIG, and TIG welding processes. The developed VR system provides a realistic welding experience of the actual welding processes for the user in which the user holds a real welding torch while watching and hearing a virtual weld. Thanks to practicing welding operations based on the virtual welding system, learners receive welding experience to minimize errors when carrying out real welding.