First Large-Group Tests of the XR2ACH Project: Strong Collaboration and Valuable Insights

In March and April 2026, we were able to comprehensively trial the InnoVET PLUS XR2ACH VR application on four occasions in a real training context. The venue was the Bundesfachschule Kälte-Klima-Technik in Leonberg, which belongs to the Landesinnung Kälte-Klima-Technik Hessen-Thüringen/Baden-Württemberg. There, participating trainees complete their inter-company training as part of block courses.

Virtual Leak Detection on Refrigeration Systems

The test series followed a methodical structure: after an initial introduction in a small group, we moved into parallel operation, with up to 16 trainees testing the single-player scenario at the same time. The goal was to depict as realistic a usage scenario as possible and gain well-founded insights for further development.

A particular highlight was the simulation of leak detection on a propane refrigeration system. Trainees had to proceed systematically: first checking the boundary conditions, identifying the refrigerant and the required test method, and then precisely locating and marking several leaks. At the end of each run, learners received a structured evaluation of their performance in the simulation.

A major advantage for learners was that this virtual system was modeled exactly on the physical refrigeration system they train on and take their real exams on at the school. This “digital twin” created strong recognition value and direct transferability of what was learned.

Multiplayer Tests: Learning Together in Virtual Space

The final test runs focused on the multiplayer systems, in which a large group of trainees joined a virtual room at the same time. In particular, the user experience and technical performance under high load were evaluated. The plan going forward is to use these rooms specifically for collaborative tasks or for “show and tell” scenarios led by instructors.

We gathered feedback not only from the trainees but also had in-depth conversations with the teachers and instructors. They saw enormous added value especially in this multiplayer mode: they greatly appreciated the ability to view CAD models and otherwise hidden internal processes of the system together and collaboratively. Making such invisible processes inside machines tangible takes knowledge transfer to a new level.

Structured Evaluation and Comparison with a Control Group

After each test phase, a structured evaluation form was completed and experiences were discussed in an open feedback session. To verify the actual learning effect, the simulation was followed by one of the institute’s standard evaluations. The performance of VR participants was compared directly with a control group of trainees who had not tested the application.

This comparison, together with the direct feedback, gives us a solid basis for specifically building on strengths and systematically addressing identified weaknesses. Overall, the results of the test series clearly show that the application is very well received by both trainees and training staff. At the same time, we gathered concrete suggestions for improving usability and individual workflows, which are now feeding directly into the next development phase.

Joint Implementation and a Big Thank You

The tests were carried out jointly by all project partners: Karlsruhe University of Applied Sciences, VDC Fellbach, and Albstadt-Sigmaringen University. The close collaboration contributed significantly to carrying out the tests efficiently and purposefully.

Special thanks go to the trainees, teachers, and everyone involved on-site for their engaged participation and kind support. Without this hands-on involvement, such a well-founded evaluation would not have been possible.

The test series confirms our development approach and shows that we are well on track with the application.

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