Transformation in Aviation: The Role of AR and VR Technologies
Hello!
In my previous article, I discussed the technologies used to shape the future of the aviation industry. I have been researching this topic for a while and one of the topics that caught my attention is the use of Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR) technologies in the aviation industry.
To access the previous article, click here: https://medium.com/design-bootcamp/designing-for-future-aviation-industry-edae7c895587
First, let’s recap what AR and VR are.
Augmented Reality (AR) is a technology that enhances the user’s interaction experience by integrating digital information onto the user’s real-world view. AR conveys digital information to users in the form of visual elements, sounds, haptic, and sensory feedback.
On the other hand, Virtual Reality (VR) is a computer-generated simulation that immerses the user into a digital environment. VR’s key feature is its ability to replicate real-life environments.
According to The Insight Partners’ report, in 2021, AR and VR held the largest share in the augmented reality segment of the market. AR and VR are currently the two most significant and rapidly growing technology fields across various industries. The growth of these technologies is attributed to their adoption in diverse sectors like healthcare, engineering, defense, and entertainment, beyond gaming. The rapid advancements in AR and VR, coupled with changing consumer behavior, support the growth of the AR and VR market. Global giants such as Meta, Microsoft, Nvidia, and Sony are making significant investments in AR and VR technologies to accelerate their growth in the coming years.
AR & VR for Training
The aviation industry has started leveraging AR (Augmented Reality) and VR (Virtual Reality) technologies for personnel training and flight simulation. These technologies allow engineers and staff to experience costly real-life scenarios rapidly, making the training process more efficient.
Currently, many airlines collaborate with different AR and VR companies to conduct personnel training. VR simulations help the crew enhance their skills, knowledge, and adaptability. Aviation professionals have the chance to adapt to various scenarios through practical training in a virtual environment without the need for a real aircraft.
Additionally, VR finds its application in training air traffic controllers, providing them with a more realistic airspace simulation to prepare them for handling complex situations.
Thanks to these cutting-edge technologies, aviation industry personnel make their training processes more effective and efficient while preparing for real flight scenarios.
The use of AR and VR in the aviation industry is a significant step towards reducing costs and providing a more competent and safer crew. These technologies are expected to play a critical role in enhancing flight safety and operational efficiency in the aviation sector in the future.
AR & VR for Safety
According to Boeing’s research, nearly half of the accidents occur during an aircraft’s takeoff or landing. Augmented Reality technology can provide pilots with necessary information in real-time, helping them stay focused on the flight and make safe decisions.
For example, Aero Glass is a technology platform designed to meet the visualization needs of pilots for terrain, navigation, traffic, weather, and airspace information. This innovative platform provides pilots with a 360-degree view using devices like glasses, phones, or iPads.
AR & VR for Maintenance and Repair
Companies are using VR systems in maintenance and repair operations, enabling working on realistic simulations. This allows personnel to work more effectively in aircraft maintenance and detect errors more precisely.
AR and VR technologies enable more efficient and quicker maintenance and repair processes. Companies can reduce costs, gain a competitive advantage, and increase customer satisfaction. Additionally, AR and VR contribute significantly to prolonging the life of aircraft and ensuring seamless operations.
Efficiency with AR & VR
Some companies have started using AR glasses to expedite the processing and loading of cargo containers. The goal is to reduce aircraft boarding times and provide passengers with shorter check-in and check-out periods.
For example, a 15-minute increase in efficiency per flight in an aircraft is crucial for an airport. Passengers will save time during boarding and deplaning, enhancing their travel experience. This will result in higher customer satisfaction for airlines while positively impacting the passengers’ overall travel experience.
The future of AR and VR in the aviation industry looks promising. In aviation, VR and AR will lead to higher efficiency in research and development, maintenance and repair, product innovation and development, personnel and team inspections, and in-flight entertainment and infotainment systems.
Sources; https://datafloq.com/read/how-ar-vr-revolutionising-the-aviation-industry/
https://tr.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sanal_gerçeklik
https://fsstudio.com/applications-of-vr-and-ar-in-the-aviation-industry/
