Portable Interactive 3D Virtual Reality Training System

PURVIS Systems proposes to team with the University of Rhode Island to research the feasibility of designing and developing a functional prototype of a "Portable Interactive 3D Virtual Reality (VR) Training System". This training tool is for submarine or classroom use and provides remote, realistic training scenarios using interactive, three-dimensional, Virtual Reality environments and tools, such as head-mounted displays and interactive tactile control devices, and interfaces with sophisticated modeling and simulation computers located at Navy R&D laboratories. This training tool could greatly improve submarine crew competency levels, while saving time and eliminating the need to transport crews to expensive, land-based trainers. Key technologies to be researched are: (1) the type and bandwidth of data being remotely transmitted, (2) the adaptability of available transmission links to transmit data from land-based training models and simulations to create realistic environments and scenarios, (3) the ability for trainees' motions and actions to be effectively tracked, recorded and assessed in competency training, (4) the availability/usefulness of head-mounted displays and interactive tactile controls to create realistic combat control and sonar system environments, and (5) the feasibility of integrating these technologies into a cost-effective and practical training tool.