Date of Defense

4-20-2023

Date of Graduation

8-2023

Department

Aviation

First Advisor

Lori Brown

Second Advisor

Nicholas Rowe

Abstract

As with virtual and augmented reality, spatial computing is based on the concept of the "digital twin". We have seen how Virtual and Augmented Reality have started to transform aviation training and now we can optimize real world training with digital tools such as spatial computing. In spatial computing training environments, the avatar serves various purposes for virtual training sessions while connecting other digital objects and creating virtual worlds. In practice, this means an instructor can present a digital version of an aircraft, aircraft system or flight deck to multiple students in different locations around the world at the same time. Students are mirrored as avatars and can walk around the aircraft, learn cockpit procedures, practice two-crew operations with multiple people in the flight deck, examine components up-close, ask questions and share opinions, just as if they were together in a traditional classroom, simulator, or aircraft setting. With spatial computing, you can run a training or outreach session from anywhere in the world and educate your workforce in a way that is cost effective, interactive, and engaging. The potential of using 3D graphically rendered content to communicate and illustrate objects for the purpose of aviation training and outreach is limitless.

A preliminary look at virtual collaborative platform installed applications showed initial promise for aviation outreach and education in VR environments. Collaboration platforms allow users to collaborate in virtual reality from remote locations. These solutions enable users to meet up in the same virtual space and communicate through both verbal and nonverbal interaction. Collaboration platforms offer users the ability to create and edit avatars to represent their likeness as well as custom environments to host a virtual classroom. These platforms can be deployed simultaneously to multiple users allowing interaction from anywhere in the world.

These collaboration platforms allow aviation faculty and instructors to develop their virtual spaces to fit their specific needs. This project will build and disseminate a collaborative platform for use of the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the WMU College of Aviation Outreach department.

Access Setting

Honors Thesis-Restricted

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