Study of Parts of an Engine in Virtual Reality
Note: This is a VR-based experiment; in the simulation, you can learn from scratch how to download the APK and use VR, while the Procedure section explains the actual lab experiment steps as performed in the Virtual Reality (VR) Lab.
Actual vs Virtual Reality Lab Procedure
1. Preparation :
Actual (Physical Disassembly)
Secure the physical engine block to the workbench. Consult the Engine Technical Manual for the correct bolt torques and disassembly sequence.
Virtual Reality (VR) Lab Procedure
The user enters the virtual workshop. The virtual engine model is bench-mounted. The system provides the correct disassembly sequence via an overlay or checklist.
2. Spark Plug Removal :
Actual (Physical Disassembly)
Locate the spark plug. Select the correct spark plug wrench. Carefully unscrew the spark plug and place it on a clean area of the workbench.
Virtual Reality (VR) Lab Procedure
The user uses the VR Controller's raycast to select the virtual spark plug (0:19) and grabs it. The user performs a virtual unscrewing gesture (or uses a virtual tool) to remove the plug and place it on the virtual shelf (0:26).
3. Cylinder Head/Cover Removal :
Actual (Physical Disassembly)
Using the correct socket wrench, loosen and remove the bolts holding the cylinder cover or crankcase cover. Carefully lift the heavy cover and set aside.
Virtual Reality (VR) Lab Procedure
The user virtually removes the cover bolts. The system highlights the cover component for removal (0:29–0:36), which is then visually split from the main block, showing the internal cross-section.
4. Piston and Connecting Rod Disassembly :
Actual (Physical Disassembly)
Access the piston pin through the cylinder opening. Carefully remove the pin retainers and tap out the piston pin to separate the piston from the connecting rod.
Virtual Reality (VR) Lab Procedure
The user follows the visual guide to remove the piston pin/clip (0:36). The virtual connecting rod component is then virtually unlinked from the crankshaft, allowing the user to examine the parts in detail (0:42).
5. Assembly (Reverse Sequence) :
Actual (Physical Disassembly)
Re-mount the connecting rod and piston. Apply proper lubrication. Tighten all bolts and components back into the engine block using the reverse sequence of disassembly and ensuring all bolts meet the specified torque setting.
Virtual Reality (VR) Lab Procedure
The user performs the steps in reverse. The VR system uses magnetic snapping to guide correct component placement and prevents progress if a part is misaligned or missing (0:45–2:12).
6. Verification :
Actual (Physical Disassembly)
Physically rotate the crankshaft to check for smooth operation and freedom of movement throughout the entire cycle.
Virtual Reality (VR) Lab Procedure
The virtual model can be set to run its cycle (0:49–2:12), showing piston movement and valve timing (if applicable), often with color-coded flow (yellow in the video) to visualize intake/exhaust paths.