Abertay University has partnered with local air cadets to launch a virtual reality (VR) flight training programme, with the 1232 (City of Dundee) Squadron Air Training Corps taking flight using simulators from the university’s Virtual Production Research Environment (ViPRE) suite.
Using two mock cockpits set-up on campus, with one linked up to the studio’s LED screen and another to a VR headset, the cadets used the immersive technology as flight simulators, a vital learning tool for air cadets, introducing them to the principles of aircraft, flight, airfields and procedures.
The simulators, which were sourced and built by Abertay staff, were on campus for one night only and have since been moved to their permanent home at the squadron’s Dundee HQ on Gardyne Place.
According to Abertay University, the installation of the new flight simulators at the squadron’s base, complete with VR headsets, will help to train new cadets safely in real-world scenarios, by integrating these into their training programmes.
It is also hoped that the technology will give the squadron an edge when it comes to recruiting new cadets, and encourage more STEM uptake among young people in the region.
“By collaborating with leading institutions like Abertay University, we can expose our cadets to cutting-edge technologies and real-world applications,” said Flt Lt Liam Fowley of the 1232 (City of Dundee) Squadron ATC.
“The integration of virtual reality into our training programs, using the excellent flight simulator sourced and built by Abertay University, has revolutionised the way we prepare our cadets for the challenges of the future.
“We look forward to continuing our strong relationship with Abertay University and exploring future opportunities for collaboration. Together, we can inspire the next generation of innovators and leaders.”
Interest in the diversity of applications for VR technology has been growing lately. Earlier this month, for example, the £5.6 million Museums in the Metaverse project – based at the University of Glasgow’s Advanced Research Centre – revealed overwhelming public enthusiasm for using VR and extended reality tech to view museum collections.
Meanwhile, the use of VR tech for training purposes is being explored elsewhere, too, with Meta announcing a beta programme in November alongside dozens of educational institutions across the US and UK, including the University of Glasgow, to deliver interactive and engaging content through a virtual reality education platform.
Source: DIGIT