Market Intelligence: Africa

Virtual Reality and Mixed Reality Headsets Provider, Vrgineers, Launches XTAL 3 CAVU MR Headset with Advanced AMD and NVIDIA Chips

The US-Czech startup, Vrgineers, specializing in Virtual and Mixed Reality technologies for pilot training, has teamed up with AMD and NVIDIA, graphical chip rivals, to pioneer an innovative architecture for mixed reality simulators. Vrgineers will unveil the new MR headset XTAL 3 CAVU at I/ITSEC 2023.

Mixed reality technology is gaining momentum in the simulation industry, especially in pilot training environment and is expected to surpass the usage of standard projection-based simulators. Today’s mixed reality technology has been limited by the quality of image sensors and high-performance requirements.

To address this challenge Vrgineers designed an innovative system that eliminates calculation bottlenecks and brings mixed reality technology to the forefront of the industry with its new XTAL 3 CAVU (Ceiling and Visibility Unlimited) Mixed Reality Headset. This unique mixed reality system utilizes 24Mpix image sensors that are connected to Xilinx FPGA PCIe16x card (chip manufacturer acquired by AMD) via optical cables.  This “hardcoded” processor is dedicated to calculating high resolution mixed reality images in just 1 millisecond, while the direct connection with the latest NVIDIA Quadro RTX A6000 GPU bypasses the CPU, reducing overall latency to a minimum. As a result, the Quadro RTXA600 is entirely dedicated to virtual reality calculations, conserving resources and enhancing performance.

“By utilizing AMD XILINX FPGA in a combination with NVIDIA Quadro card, we found a way to provide so much needed performance boost for mixed reality, which is far above of two fastest graphical cards, with much lower latency as well as power consumption,” explains Marek Polcak, Vrgineers CEO & co-founder.

The XTAL 3 CAVU design is crafted from precision-engineered carbon, showcasing an exquisite balance of strength, remarkable lightweight characteristics, and exceptional durability. It is an ideal choice for applications in high-performance industries such as pilot training. This design ensures the headset is lighter than ever before, setting new standards for both comfort and performance.

This unique system will be embedded in Vrgineers Mixed Reality Classroom Simulators and available for purchase in 2024 for selected partners, such as U.S. NAVY under the SBIR Phase II. For less demanding scenarios, Vrgineers are also offering an improved version of XTAL 3 NEO Mixed Reality Headset, which is currently the most affordable solution for pilot training on the market.

All Vrgineers products, including our cutting-edge virtual and mixed reality headsets are TAA certified and comply with the strictest security regulations for deployment in restricted areas.

About Vrgineers

Vrgineers is a leader in developing immersive technologies and provides high-quality, effective training for military pilots using the advanced XTAL VR and MR headsets, along with aviation simulators that serve as the foundation for a modern synthetic training platform. The XTAL headset, designed with input from aviation professionals worldwide, meets demanding requirements for realistic simulation. Our interconnected trainers facilitate comprehensive scenarios, including individual and cooperative exercises involving pilots, co-pilots, gunners, JTAC instructors, and squadron coordination. Vrgineers’ simulators support diverse aviation platforms, from propeller-driven to supersonic aircraft and helicopters.

Source: Vrgineers
Photo Credit: Vrgineers

Related Posts

Global Provider of Aviation Headsets and Helmet Solutions, Lightspeed Aviation, Announces Latest Appointment for President

Lightspeed Aviation, a leading global provider of premium aviation headsets and helmet solutions announced that Heider Lazzarini has joined the company as its new President.

Mr. Lazzarini brings more than 20 years of International executive experience in general management, marketing, product, and sales in consumer, commercial, industrial, and military/government markets. Reporting to Lightspeed Aviation’s founder and CEO Allan Schrader, Mr. Lazzarini will be responsible for all aspects of Lightspeed’s day-to-day operations while Mr. Schrader focuses on developing adjacent market opportunities utilizing existing and evolving technologies.

“I’m excited to turn over our ongoing business operations to Heider” said Allan Schrader, CEO and Chairman of the Board of Directors. “Heider’s experience, combined with his passion and energy, provide the perfect accelerant for our expanding business opportunities.”

“With decades of being first to market with audio and now piloting safety solutions, I believe that Lightspeed has a tremendous opportunity to deliver new value for its customers and partners,” said Lazzarini. “I am very excited to be joining this seasoned team as the company continues to evolve its latest technology platform to enhance the flying experience for the Aviation market worldwide.”

Mr. Lazzarini most recently served as Vice President of Marketing for a platform of acquired companies: Audio Precision (U.S.), GRAS Sound and Vibration (Denmark), and imc Test & Measurement (Germany). Previously, he held various leadership positions in general management, marketing and product management at FLIR Systems, now Teledyne FLIR, and Gerber Gear, a division of FISKARS. Mr. Lazzarini received his MBA from the University of Oregon.

About Lightspeed Aviation

Lightspeed Aviation is a leading manufacturer of premium aviation headsets and helmet products. Since the first product was introduced in 1996 at AirVenture in Oshkosh, WI, the company has established a reputation for leading innovation in the aviation acoustic solutions. In 2022, the company launched the first of a series of aviation headsets, layering life-saving technologies on top of its award-winning audio and ANR platform. With this, Lightspeed continues to live its mission of “creating products that protect and save lives”. Additionally, Lightspeed is a passionate supporter of initiatives to encourage the next generation of pilots through its support of programs including Young Eagles and Ray Scholars.

Source: Lightspeed Aviation

Related Posts

Simulator Manufacturer, BRUNNER Simulation, Introduces Latest Addition to its NOVASIM Family

BRUNNER Simulation proudly introduces the latest addition to their NOVASIM family: The NOVASIM MR F-35. This unclassified full motion F-35 MR Simulator sets a new standard for professional Part Task and mission training. From air-to-air refueling, formation flying to cockpit familiarization and hypoxia training the NOVASIM MR F-35 Simulator offers various training scenarios.

To reach training perfection BRUNNER has collaborated with VIPER WING to adapt their ultimate F-35 cockpit, ensuring seamless integration with the NOVASIM Simulator. In a Mixed Reality trainer, the authenticity of the replica cockpit is essential.

Combined with the VARJO XR Focal Edition MR HMD, the level of immersion achieved is outstanding. The NOVASIM MR F-35 Simulator boasts extensively tuned flight physics models and BRUNNER control loadings, creating a comprehensive package. Reach new heights in fighter Jet pilot training with the BRUNNER NOVASIM MR F-35.

Compared to conventional mission trainers which are often very expensive or always occupied, the NOVASIM MR F-35 is BRUNNERs solution to minimize those challenging situations for training providers.

The first time to the public, BRUNNER NOVASIM MR F-35 will be shown at IITSEC in Orlando (Nov. 27 to Dec. 1st) and will get certainly a lot of attention from the visitors. You can find BRUNNER at booth #1601 (Aechelon Technology).

Source: BRUNNER Simulation
Photo Credit: BRUNNER Simulation

Related Posts

Global Pilot Simulator Training Center Operator, SIMAERO, Announces Latest Appointment for Chief Financial Officer

SIMAERO,  a global, independent provider of flight simulator training to airlines, training organizations, and commercial pilots, has appointed Mr. Emmanuel Croissandeau as the Group’s Chief Financial Officer (CFO).

“We are pleased to introduce the newest addition to the Simaero Leadership Team, Emmanuel Croissandeau, who has joined us as the new Group Chief Financial Officer,” said SIMAERO. “Emmanuel brings with him a wealth of experience from leading roles in major international consulting and construction companies. His proven track record makes him an excellent asset for steering our financial strategy as the group continues its rapid development.”

Learn more about SIMAERO or Mr. Croissandeau by connecting with him through his LinkedIn profile here.

Source: SIMAERO
Photo Credit: SIMAERO

Related Posts