# Integrating Digital Twins of Engineering Labs into Multi-User Virtual Reality Environments
## 1 Introduction
### Practical Work in the Engine Laboratory  
One of the most significant experiments in the engine laboratory is the \"Trailed Engine Test\". This test is fundamental in technical education as it enables the analysis of energy losses and the dynamic behavior of an internal combustion engine under controlled conditions. The test involves driving the engine using an electric motor, eliminating combustion effects to allow a more accurate assessment of mechanical losses, such as frictional power and ventilation system energy consumption [1]. Mastering this experiment is essential for students to develop data interpretation skills and apply thermodynamic principles, as set out in [2].  
Traditionally, the entrained engine test is carried out in the laboratory using a traditional methodology that, although functional, has inherent limitations. This process includes measurements performed under three specific conditions:  
1. Cold oil with the fan disconnected.
2. Warm oil with the fan disconnected.
3. Warm oil with the fan connected.  
During the test, one student manually adjusts the engine revolutions per minute (RPM) using a motor-variator, while another student monitors the temperatures with multichannel equipment, and a third student records the data obtained.  
Digital Twins and Their Interaction in Virtual Reality for Technical Education in the Context of Industry 4.0  
The incorporation of technologies such as virtual reality and digital twins in technical education responds to the evolution of industry towards digitalization and automatization, key features of Industry 4.0 as explored in [PERSON]; [PERSON]; [PERSON]; [PERSON]; [PERSON] \"Exploring the Efficacy of Mixed Reality versus Traditional Methods in Higher Education: A Comparative Study\", in which the integration of these technologies was analyzed in the context of engineering education and industrial training [3; 4]. Digital twins have been widely adopted in industrial sectors for process simulation and optimization, allowing the creation of virtual replicas of machinery, production plants, and complete systems [5; 6; 7]. Its application in educational and laboratory environments offers the possibility of replicating real operating conditions without the costs and risks associated with physical experimentation, providing an interactive platform for analysis and decision making in real time [8; 9; 10; 11; 12; 13]. Virtual reality has emerged as a key tool in human-machine interaction, facilitating immersion in simulated environments where students can manipulate digital models and experiment with complex systems in a controlled environment [14; 15; 16; 17].  
The transition to Industry 4.0 requires that technical education evolves in sync with the transformations of the productive sector [18; 19; 20]. The adoption of digital twins and virtual reality in education not only modernizes learning methods, but also strengthens essential competencies, such as data interpretation, system optimization, and problem solving in digitized environments. These technologies also facilitate real-time process monitoring and forecasting, aspects that are increasingly important in managing and improving industrial systems [21] By providing hands-on experience aligned with the demands of the labor market, these technologies enable students to develop key skills to lead the digital transformation of the industry, ensuring effective adaptation to the challenges and opportunities of the technological era, as demonstrated in [PERSON]; [PERSON]; [PERSON]; [PERSON] \"Interactive Application as a Teaching Aid in Mechanical Engineering\", in which similar methodologies were applied to enhance student engagement and technical proficiency in engineering education [17; 21; 22; 23].