in the Virtual reality and mixed reality news
11/24/2022 – pioneersa provider of next-generation virtual and mixed reality (VR/MR) pilot training systems, and DigiFlighta provider of cybersecurity, IT, aerospace and training solutions with extensive global pilot training experience, announced this week that they have entered into a partnership to develop a modern and comprehensive training solution for the Apache multirole attack helicopter.
With over 1,200 aircraft currently in service, the Advanced Mixed Reality Apache Trainer (AMRAT) will accelerate pilot training with high-fidelity MR solutions, reducing the number of aircraft hours typically required to support training of individuals and crew duties , reduce significantly, the company said.
The AMRAT is based on a proprietary wearable platform developed by Vrgineers and originally developed for the US Air Force (USAF). The platform provides an affordable, immersive, and realistic experience without the need for expensive visual display systems, complicated support systems, or unique facility design requirements.
The trainer includes two separate but interconnected crew stations (the pilot and co-pilot gunner station) with replicated switches, control panels, flight instruments and displays connected to a computer and an integrated VR image generator. Currently, the platform runs on immersive flight simulator software provided by ED Mission Systems.
“The ability to perform a seamless mixed reality environment with a wearable haptic flight seat powered by a lifelike simulation engine ensures pilot competency, but most importantly, conveys the sense of a unique and real experience that encompasses complex operational scenarios. This allows our users to save time and effort while minimizing training infrastructure costs and associated operational hours,” said Matthias Techmanski, Director at ED Mission Systems.
The new training solution is the result of the collaboration between Vrgineers and DigiFlight. Marek Polcak, CEO of Vrgineers, commented on the partnership: “We strongly believe that by combining our skills we are able to provide a training device capable of supporting Apache training tasks, including individual ones and crew skills, and prepares the trainees to operate in any environment and fulfill critical mission requirements.”
Polcak added: “This type of modern trainer is expected to play a crucial role in pilot training in the future. Not only for Apache, but also for Defiant (LMCO & Boeing) and Valor (Bell), which are currently being developed in the US and will participate in future vertical lift programs.”
Vrgineers and DigiFlight will jointly present their conceptual MR Apache trainer I/ITSEC next week in Orlando, Fla. For more information on Vrgineers and its VR and MR training systems for pilots, visit the company’s website website.
Photo credit: Virginers
Sam Sprigg
Sam is the founder and editor-in-chief of Auganix. With a background in research and reporting, he has been reporting on XR industry news for the past five years.
