Invensys Process Systems has just unveiled an immersive virtual reality (IVR), ‘next-generation’ human machine interface (HMI) that it claims will ‘revolutionize’ the way engineers and operator trainees see and interact with the plant and the processes they control. IVR creates a 3D computer-generated representation of a real or proposed process plant. A stereoscopic headset provides users with an immersive environment in which they can move through the plant in any direction. The virtual environment is rendered at 60 frames per second, providing a realistic user experience.
IPS director Maurizio Rovaglio said, ‘The ability to simulate complex processes in connection with virtual actions allows the user to experience an environment that changes over time, making it more effective at transferring skills learned in training to the work environment. Rarely performed volatile tasks such as plant shutdowns can be rehearsed in a stable, realistic environment, allowing users and trainees learn and make mistakes without putting themselves, the community or the environment at risk. Computer models of real equipment allow for experimentation without taking equipment off line and impacting production.’ Invensys’ DynSim software emulates the plant environment, linking process simulation models with physical models to create real world scenarios.
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