Virtual reality (VR) applications can be used for training in the aviation sector, but what needs to be done to optimize the technology? According to Konradas Dulka, product manager at Sensus Aero, a next-generation software solution for the aviation industry, VR applications can be both simple and inconvenient.
“VR application challenges come in many different forms – some technical, while others lie in the human factor,” Dulka said. “So while these technologies are valuable and allow us to improve training processes and engage trainees at the same time, we need to remain vigilant in the face of these challenges.”
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One of the challenges is optimization. “At Sensus Aero, we’ve experimented with a number of different VR engines, all of which have distinct advantages,” Dulka said. “However, whichever engine you choose, you need to spend a lot of time on optimizations. If you base your strategy solely on realistic graphics, great sound effects, a good step-by-step walkthrough, your product won’t automatically In my mind, the overall optimizations actually define the product, allowing it to be used longer, even by those who have never tried something like this before.
Although VR training involves simulating an actual procedure, not everything has to be covered. “We only focus on procedural steps to make training faster and more focused,” Dulka said. “This means that every step in creating a VR simulation must be considered very carefully – what do we want to be part of the simulation and what is not so important. Our research has shown that during the simulation, if there are training parts when you move around in the VR simulation without doing anything, for example on a bus as a passenger, half of the people get dizzy. here we give the option to the instructor to turn off the game and move on to the next step, in other words, VR customization must be present, because no one is the same.
Integration can be another challenge. “We generally recommend starting training with easier procedures, just to get used to the controls and the feel itself,” Dulka said. “Unlike ERP systems or mobile apps, virtual reality gives you the feeling of immersion – the user starts to believe they are inside the simulation and here we can help them develop the right habits If the onboarding was done correctly, the Sensus Aero VR training mode can easily guide users through the steps, even if the procedure is quite complicated. And that’s it! After onboarding, users can be self-sufficient and run the training themselves, which means less of a load on the trainer’s schedule.”
An example of a particularly difficult aviation procedure that Sensus Aero has adapted to virtual reality is refueling in the aircraft.
“The complexity of a large number of stages and the replication of supply panels, trucks and sequences was really a challenge,” said Dulka. “You can’t replicate ‘more or less’ and expect users to believe it – it has to be reproduced exactly graphically, ensuring that the interaction of controls is as realistic as possible. Also, you have to settle everything according to the company itself, because the company may use different trucks where the controls differ, the customer’s aircraft fleet may consist of many different types of aircraft, etc.
“Our recommendation is to focus on the most common mistakes and start from there,” Dulka continued. “Also, unlike real training, with Sensus Aero powering virtual reality in the aircraft, we can simulate overpressure or fire risk, which is simply not possible in real practice. It is always good to know that your personnel are prepared for all situations, not just the “positive” sequence.We believe that with the integration of VR training, we can improve aviation safety and minimize the risk of human factor.
Sensus Aero is a family member of the Avia Solutions group.
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