High voltage power line training simulator VR

The application provides the trainee with a virtual simulation of a real-world, dangerous, high-voltage powerline work allowing the trainee to remain safe on the ground while still being able to train for real-life situations. High risk jobs must comply with occupational health and safety to ensure that the work is performed without error, this can only be achieved with practice and practical training. It is often difficult, expensive and dangerous to send untrained trainees into real-world situations for training purposes [1]. Research shows that simulating high-risk workplaces in virtual reality can activate trainees’ fears, and exposure to the source of anxiety allows them to, overtime, develop the courage to push past fear and perform the job [2]. The application is designed to simulate each of the steps required to perform a spacer installation on a high voltage powerline from a helicopter.

The first step in the application is the helicopter flight which takes place from the ground, the trainee is transported in a virtual helicopter above the tree line to a set of high voltage powerlines. The trainee is then required to use the conducting wand to ensure that the helicopter is on the same potential difference. This involves holding the wand with the left hand while the helicopter moves towards the wires, the wand is then held outwards and slowly brought towards the wire until it makes contact. Once the wand touches the wire, a carabiner is then held with the right hand. The carabiner is clipped to the wire to establish a solid connection between the helicopter and the wire preventing any discharge due to a difference in potential. The second step is to install a spacer in between the powerlines to keep them apart in high winds. After the spacer is installed, the final step is to do the reverse, by first removing the carabiner from the wires while holding the conducting wand onto the powerline, then holding it outwards while the helicopter moves away from the power lines to safely discharge the helicopter. Once the discharge is complete the helicopter flies back over the tree and returns to the ground.

It’s essential for the main steps in high-risk jobs to be simulated properly to ensure that trainees can perform their job without failure or injury.