A virtual reality training system for power-utility personnel

Abstract

The growing complexity and inherent risks associated with the operation of power transmission and distribution systems have caused personnel training to become a priority for a growing number of electricity utilities. Simulation-based training has the advantage of being safe for both personnel and equipment, while offering the trainee the opportunity to be exposed to a range of scenarios and to exceptional conditions which either occur rarely or are hazardous to reproduce. This paper presents a virtual reality training simulator prototype developed for a local power utility. The architecture and interaction metaphors of this distributed client-server oriented system are described.