Siemens has recently showcased the results of its collaboration with Sony, featuring its new XR HMD (Head-Mounted Display) at a series of launch events around the world. The events, including one in the UK, allowed guests to try out the headset and learn more about Siemens’ plans for the integration of Extended Reality (XR) with its NX X software.
The Sony SRH-S1 headset, designed for comfort and usability, features a flip-up visor, precision controllers, and a 4K display with 3,552 x 2,840 resolution per eye, providing clear visibility. The headset is also fully adjustable and can be worn with glasses underneath. Despite its weight, it is nicely balanced, although it may take some users time to get accustomed to it. The interface is visually simple, allowing users to view 3D designs, apply tools, and edit designs in real-time using the stylus as a mouse.
The XR HMD is compatible with NX X, Siemens’ cloud-based CAD and data management software. This integration allows designers across multiple locations to make notes and edit designs, as well as create avatars and enter a space together to examine and discuss designs.
Chris Abbott, Siemens Digital Industries pre-sales manager for product engineering, simulation, and test solutions, explains that using the headset provides a different experience compared to traditional monitors. It allows designers to immerse themselves in a design and make changes quickly, as demonstrated by the example of examining a car design. He notes that the headset allows users to understand the perspective of being inside the design, whereas a monitor does not.
The company has also introduced value-based licensing, allowing customers to purchase tokens in increments of 50 and 100 for use on a product of their choosing. This can be beneficial for companies that only need to use software occasionally, reducing the cost of purchasing a standalone program.
The collaboration between Sony and Siemens has the potential to bring valuable XR to designers’ desktops, as seen at the launch events. The overwhelmingly positive response from users suggests that the integration of XR and NX X could revolutionize the design and engineering industry.