United States – Vertex Solutions, a Woman-Owned Small Business known for its expertise in systems integration and learning technologies, has been chosen by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to spearhead a research initiative focused on developing virtual reality (VR) flight simulation standards. Collaborating with Varjo and Aechelon, leaders in XR headsets and visual simulation technology, respectively, the project aims to revolutionize pilot training by integrating extended reality (XR) technologies into official flight simulator standards.

Key Details of the Initiative:

• Objective: To identify the minimum XR system specifications, such as latency, resolution, and field of view, required for effective and efficient pilot training.
• Partners:
  • Vertex Solutions: Leads the project with its XR training expertise.
  • Varjo: Supplies advanced XR headsets with industry-leading resolution and precision.
  • Aechelon: Provides state-of-the-art visual simulation systems.
• FAA’s Role: Enhancing its CSF S-76 simulator with XR visualization for rigorous experimentation on pilot performance and workload under various XR configurations.

Research Approach:

• Simulation Upgrades: The S-76 simulator will be outfitted with XR functionality, enabling FAA pilots to undergo diverse training scenarios while testing parameters like latency and field of view.
• Mixed Reality (MR) Integration: Incorporating MR technology to push the boundaries of immersive training methodologies.
• Data Collection: In-depth experiments will measure how specific XR metrics impact pilot workload, situational awareness, and training outcomes.

Expected Outcomes:

• Comprehensive Standards Report: A detailed document on how XR specifications influence pilot performance and training effectiveness will be presented to FAA sponsors.
• Policy Impact: Findings are anticipated to guide updates to federal flight simulator regulations, potentially establishing XR benchmarks for the aviation industry.

Statement:

• Dennis Wikoff, President & COO of Vertex Solutions, highlighted the significance of the collaboration, stating, “Together, we aim to help the FAA set new benchmarks that could redefine training methods and support the integration of VR into official flight simulator standards. We’re honored to collaborate on this project and shape the future of immersive flight training.”

About Vertex Solutions
Vertex Solutions delivers mission-critical training solutions that empower people to excel in complex, real-world environments. Specializing in systems integration for XR training technology, Vertex has a proven record of success with U.S. and international military clients, as well as Government, Commercial, and Civil Aviation sectors. Vertex is dedicated to enhancing training quality, reducing costs, and improving safety through innovative integration and expert collaboration.

About Varjo
Varjo is the world-leading provider of enterprise virtual and mixed reality solutions, delivering the highest levels of immersion, performance, and security for the most demanding industrial customers globally. Used by over 25% of the Fortune 100 and 19/20 of the world’s largest defense and aerospace companies, Varjo is known for virtual and mixed reality that look and feel as real as the real world, allowing training astronauts and fighter jet pilots, designing cars, and conducting pioneering medical research across virtual environments.

Our hardware and software solutions integrate with the world’s largest ecosystem of professional 3D software, image generators, and advanced simulator hardware. With Varjo’s offering, including the latest XR-4 Series and the government-compliant XR-4 Secure Edition, professionals can recreate the exact feeling and conditions of real life in 3D, allowing them to train faster, better and more cost effectively.

About Aechelon Technology
Aechelon Technology, Inc. is a leading provider of real-time computer graphics solutions for training, simulation, and commercial markets. The company specializes in COTS-based, high-resolution, multi-channel, geo-specific image generators, out-the-window (OTW) displays, and correlated worldwide sensor databases, along with comprehensive integration services. Aechelon delivers top-tier solutions for the U.S. Department of Defense, allied governments, and prime contractors in commercial applications. Its image generators are field-proven, fully supported with logistics, and accompanied by comprehensive documentation. Aechelon Technology is ISO 9001:2015 certified and is headquartered in South San Francisco, CA.

Source: Vertex Solutions
Photo Credit: Vertex Solutions