Visual Inspection Research and Training Using Augmented Learning (VIRTUAL)

Directed by PI Genda Chen

Housed in the CII, this laboratory has two rooms: one for digital simulations and the other for physical testing. The laboratory features unique capabilities to individually train 10 drone pilots/inspectors in each cohort with the latest augmented reality and gaming environment technologies in four levels. At the first level, both a robot and a bridge are simulated using a computational tool in a controllable background (virtual) environment. At the second level, a robot prototype and a virtual bridge are simulated in a hybrid experimental/computational tool. At the third level, both a robot prototype and an idealized bridge girder are used for the ultimate training of inspectors in close-to-reality scenarios inside the laboratory. At the four level, pilots/inspectors will practice their skills at a mock-up steel-girder bridge. Laboratory equipment includes: 10 sets of high performance computers (DELL R11), training drones (Parrot - Drone Anafi Extended and Potensic A30W RC Mini Quadcopter), training simulator (ZEPHYR), and virtual reality headset (Valve Index VR Kit).

Fig. 5 Testing of a Hybrid Flying and Traversing Multicopter for Surrounding Magnetic Field and System Dynamics during Mode Transition