Virtual reality and its applications
What is virtual reality?
When we hear virtual reality, we imagine something futuristic, but alas, this is no longer the case. Virtual reality is now. We can see it in our everyday life. It is being used by kids in video games, adults to watch videos and by the military to train and improve their skills. Summarized we can say that virtual reality is the result of powerful computers and special software, which can reproduce realistic environments in which person can see a 360°field of view and interact with other subjects which are generated in advance by the computer software. The person who is in the virtual reality is given special sensors attached to his arms, legs, head and back. This is how he is “transferred” to that virtual environment where he can interact with people and even animals.
What is the use of virtual reality?
In the 20th century when virtual reality was invented, it was mostly used for entertainment purposes - such as playing video games and watching 3D movies. Nowadays, it is being used by many experts in various fields of science:
- Engineers, who can test the constructions and design of their prototypes in virtual reality. Thus, defects can be detected early on, test whether the prototype is safe and improve their designs and processes if necessary.
- Architects can use virtual reality to visualize their drawings and see them from a different perspective. In addition, through the use of virtual reality, they can present apartment interiors and exteriors to their potential customers, so that they would be able to make a more informative decision about their future purchase.
- In production and manufacturing – any product can be brought into a virtual reality. This transfer allows the product to be carefully studied and tested, so that any issues can be changed and fixed before the product’s release.
The use case of virtual reality in military training
The preparation and readiness of military cadets is extremely important. With the help of virtual reality they are able to train and practice in absolutely safety, without any risks for their lives. This is possible due to a team of specialist who model scenarios, such as bank robberies, attacks on embassies, battle tank operations, helicopter autorotation landings and other potentially dangerous exercises. This in turn reduces the time and complicated logistics of training in the real world. This is due to the fact that all actions are executed in a single room and everything around is just a simulated experience. Training scenarios may be changed any time by the leading instructor. That saves time and expenses, while the focus remains on the main purpose – to train and gain new combat abilities. A great example of training in VR is sky diving – a soldier can experience all the disorientation, nausea, and vigilance. The training is conducted in a safe room without any flight and maintenance costs. Soldiers can be set-up in situations of danger, whether they are in a submarine, a jet fighter, battle tank or any other battle machine where they can feel uncomfortable or even claustrophobic. This training will certainly help them overcome potential phobia. In a virtual reality, cadets can also be put over different terrains – snowy landscapes, wet rocks or muddy terrain. In addition, artificial intelligence powered enemies with realistic behaviors can be generated, which in turn trains fight-or-flight response to certain situations.
In conclusion, virtual reality is an efficient and effective way for training soldiers and improving their combat skills and abilities.
