Students take virtual steps

An enhanced virtual reality system has been installed at Fife College in Scotland to help train future offshore wind turbine technicians. 

The ‘immersive hybrid reality’ (iHR) system allows users to see their own hands and feet as well as tools and manuals, while virtually transporting them to the top of a wind turbine. 

Students can then carry out inspections on the 110-metre turbine, which is based on the Offshore Renewable Energy (ORE) Catapult’s Samsung 7MW Levenmouth demonstration machine. 

The software is capable of simulating range of different weather conditions meaning students can hone skills in a realistic environment. 

The iHR laboratory was developed by ORE Catapult in conjunction with Heriot-Watt University and Middlesbrough-based visualisation specialists Animmersion UK. 

The training facility is located at the college’s Rosyth campus and has recieved a £50,000 grant from the Energy Skills Partnership.

“This immersive hybrid reality lab represents a tremendous opportunity to develop the skills and jobs required by the growing offshore renewables industry in Scotland,” said Scotland’s Education minister Shirley-Anne Somerville, who unveiled the new kit on today.

“It is important we continue to develop a workforce that is properly skilled and one that is familiar with new technologies and innovative practices that lead the way,” she added.

Image: Fife College