Invensys Process Systems (IPS), a global technology firm, recently unveiled its Immersive Virtual Reality Process technology, a next-generation human machine interface (HMI) solution that will change the way engineers and operator trainees see and interact with the plant and the processes they control.
The solution can create a three-dimensional computer-generated representation of either a real or proposed process plant. Via a stereoscopic headset, users enter a totally immersive environment in which they can move through the plant in any direction. Such freedom is made possible because the virtual environment is rendered at 60 frames per second, significantly faster than what can be achieved by traditional, non real-time rendering.
"The ability to simulate complex processes in connection with virtual actions allows the user to directly experience an environment that changes over time, making it more effective at transferring skills learned in training to the work environment," said Maurizio Rovaglio, director, IPS global consulting. "And because rarely performed volatile tasks such as plant shutdowns can be rehearsed in a stable, realistic environment, users and operator trainees have the opportunity to learn and make mistakes without putting themselves, the community or the environment at risk. In addition to that, using computer models of real equipment allows endless experimentation without ever taking the equipment off line, mitigating risk to production as well."
IPS makes Immersive Virtual Reality Process realistic by applying its DYNSIM software to emulate the plant environment, linking process simulation models with physical-spatial models to create virtually any scenario that a user could encounter in real life.
The company's new solution has been designed for a wide range of scenarios, including process design, maintenance engineering and plant safety.
To view a video demonstration of Immersive Virtual Reality Process visit www.ips.virtual-plant.com.
Interested in information related to this topic? Subscribe to our Information Technology eNewsletter.
