VRAI to use VR simulation training for the offshore wind sector

VR Simulation - Person using VR headset

The company is seeking to use virtual reality to help companies overcome the energy crisis.

VR simulation experiences aren’t proving to be nearly as appealing to consumers and businesses as many large companies, such as Meta, had anticipated. Even gamers aren’t as enthusiastic about virtual reality as many tech giants had thought would be the case.

Training and education appear to be an area where this technology remains highly promising.

VRAI, a start-up from Ireland, is seeking to create a place of leadership for itself in VR simulation training. It has been focusing on “hazardous environment awareness training” (HEAT). These training programs are meant to help improve training among those working in hazardous areas. The company plans to find its start with the offshore wind industry.

VR Simulation - Offshore wind turbines

VRAI has created a simulation platform that combines virtual reality with machine learning, and data capture and analysis. This provides users measurable insights so that they can continually improve the results of their training. VRAI has already signed on a number of solid clients, such as BAE Systems, a British Multinational arms and defense contractor. In that case, VRAI is providing virtual military training.

The company is focusing on many forms of dangerous environment for its VR simulation training.

“Traditional training for risky, remote and rare operational environments is expensive, difficult to scale and very difficult to measure in terms of its effectiveness,” said Pat O’Connor, managing director. “Traditional simulators are only available to elite roles, they are not scalable, and are often as expensive as the actual piece of equipment.”

Offshore wind farms are becoming more common, more complex, and considerably larger. This means that they also come with substantial occupational hazards out at sea for the installation and maintenance workers. Risks can include everything from falling, drowning, and extreme weather.

Though VR simulation training is far from a replacement for training occurring on-site in reality, it can help to provide an additional level of preparation and education. Moreover, it can also help to reduce the amount of time required on-site for training purposes. This can reduce risk to trainees as well as other workers responsible for their safety.

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