HOPE

Virtual reality is used for the layout planning of industrial facilities mainly by large companies and engineering offices. Small and medium-sized enterprises usually lack the 3D models, knowledge and hardware required. HOPE (Offene Planungsumgebung in Virtual Reality für die industrielle Layoutplanung) develops an immersive VR planning tool that runs on off-the-shelf devices and can be used without expert knowledge. Planning follows a structured process and is accompanied by planning supports that provide machine properties as well as guidelines and regulations. People can plan collaboratively in the same virtual environment.

The project runs from January 2026 to December 2028 and is funded by the Bundesministerium für Forschung, Technologie und Raumfahrt within the WIR! programme.

Project website