Abstract This article introduces a new design concept for visually planning and optimising production layouts for the turning shop of the future. The planning process takes place within the Visual Components software in a virtual reality (VR) environment, combining Low-Code and Pro-Code approaches for implementation. Existing components can be imported into the 3D environment and edited flexibly via a central database. In addition, computer-aided design (CAD) models of relevant machines can be integrated. However, as the degree of realism increases, so does the development effort. Authoring with artificial intelligence (AI) and large language models (LLMs) can facilitate the necessary programming, enabling development even for users without programming experience. This can significantly increase the attractiveness and usefulness of such VR applications. A well-established provider of consulting, training and engineering solutions in machining technology and automation acted as an application partner for this solution’s demonstrator. This article demonstrates how AI authoring, when combined with VR technology, can create an effective and practical tool for production planning, which could become an integral part of modern manufacturing operations.
Boecking et al. (Fri,) studied this question.