a virtual reality system to train power live lines operators
TRANSCRIPT
The 11th IERE GM/The IERE – IIE Latin American Forum, 1 – 3 November 2011, Cancún, Mexico
Virtual Reality System for Training of operators of power
live lines
Israel Galván BobadillaInstituto de Investigaciones Eléctricas
Gerencia de Tecnologías de la InformaciónAv. Reforma #113, Edif. 27, Piso 1,
Colonia Palmira, Cuernavaca, Morelos, México. C.P. 62490. TEL: +52 (777) 3 62 38 11 Ext. 7526
Fax: 777-362-3881 - Ext. [email protected]
The 11th IERE GM/The IERE – IIE Latin American Forum, 1 – 3 November 2011, Cancún, Mexico
Contents
1. Introduction a. VR terminologyb. Live line maintenancec. Motivation
2. VR training systema. Architectureb. Development phasesc. Features
3. Results4. Conclusions
Contents Introduction
VR training system Architecture Development
ConclusionFeatures
Results
The 11th IERE GM/The IERE – IIE Latin American Forum, 1 – 3 November 2011, Cancún, Mexico
Introduction Contents Introduction
VR training system Architecture Development
ConclusionFeatures
Results
Virtual Reality (VR) is a multidisciplinary area with a wide range of applications like: (1) Simulation of risky situations, (2) Analysis and interpretation of scientific data trough visualization, (3) Navigation on virtual environments and manipulation of 3D elements in order to understand process, phenomena and concepts.
It is useful for design, simulation and training.
In the last decade, VR has evolved in technology and applications. Technical advances have led to the development of novel interaction devices and concepts, more reliable and robust VR set-ups, advanced visualization and modeling software.
The use of VR is available in many industries like entertainment, medicine, military, automotive and energy, among others.
The 11th IERE GM/The IERE – IIE Latin American Forum, 1 – 3 November 2011, Cancún, Mexico
Introduction Contents Introduction
VR training system Architecture Development
ConclusionFeatures
Results
Virtual Reality is a partial or full representation of real or non-real environments by the use of electronic media. Such representation may include 3D graphics and/or images, and can be:
¿What is VR? (Our definition)
Immersive. The user has the sensation of being inside of a virtual environment to interact with existing elements trough the stimulation of his visual, auditory and tactile senses. It could demand the use of gloves, glasses, position tracking, joysticks, etc.
Non-Immersive. Interaction is done by the use of keyboard, mouse and a graphic monitor, so the user never loses sight of the surrounding world. Also known as Desktop VR.
The 11th IERE GM/The IERE – IIE Latin American Forum, 1 – 3 November 2011, Cancún, Mexico
Introduction Contents Introduction
VR training system Architecture Development
ConclusionFeatures
Results
Most work in power systems must be free of interruption, so it is carried out by man using live-line techniques, also called maneuvers. However, these techniques have increased the number of accidents by electric shock.
Live line maintenance
Risks: tall structures and difficult zones, reduced work spaces with poor ventilation, susceptible to flooding and the presence of toxic gases.
Good training is required!
The 11th IERE GM/The IERE – IIE Latin American Forum, 1 – 3 November 2011, Cancún, Mexico
Introduction Contents Introduction
VR training system Architecture Development
ConclusionFeatures
Results
The traditional training system at CFE had the following issues:
Monotonous. Trainees used to learn theory by reading on a paper, in some occasions information was dispersed and not related to maintenance. With the use RV training is more attractive because it offers a better user experience.
Risky. Using VR, users can train safely an later user their knowledge in a real installation.
Limited. Trainees can learn how to do maintenance without the need of being at a remote or unusual installation, also know the equipment without the need of visiting the warehouse or even if the tools are occupied by others.
Motivation
The 11th IERE GM/The IERE – IIE Latin American Forum, 1 – 3 November 2011, Cancún, Mexico
VR Training System
Contents Introduction
VR training system Architecture Development
ConclusionFeatures
Results
ArchitectureWe developed a training system based on non-immersive virtual reality called Alen3D. Training is focused on the maintenance of high and medium power live-lines in a distribution system.
The 11th IERE GM/The IERE – IIE Latin American Forum, 1 – 3 November 2011, Cancún, Mexico
VR Training System
Contents Introduction
VR training system Architecture Development
ConclusionFeatures
Results
Development stages
The 11th IERE GM/The IERE – IIE Latin American Forum, 1 – 3 November 2011, Cancún, Mexico
VR Training System
Contents Introduction
VR training system Architecture Development
ConclusionFeatures
Results
Development stagesDefinition. All the elements that make up the virtual environment are defined. The information is collected through videos, manuals, plans, standards, procedures and also measuring equipment, materials and tools.
The 11th IERE GM/The IERE – IIE Latin American Forum, 1 – 3 November 2011, Cancún, Mexico
VR Training System
Contents Introduction
VR training system Architecture Development
ConclusionFeatures
Results
Development stagesDesign. Information of the maneuvers is normalized. All operators reach agreement on the steps of the maneuvers. 3D objects are modeled at scale and painted with realistic aspect.
The 11th IERE GM/The IERE – IIE Latin American Forum, 1 – 3 November 2011, Cancún, Mexico
VR Training System
Contents Introduction
VR training system Architecture Development
ConclusionFeatures
Results
Development stagesConstruction. Virtual scenes, animation, interactivity, audio and interface elements are created. Valid clicks to run an animations, the type of navigation permitted (zoom, handling of objects), and selection of object from the menu of tools are implemented.
3DsMax Cult3D ALEn3D Animation > Interactivity > System Integration
PHASE 1 PHASE 2 PHASE 3
The 11th IERE GM/The IERE – IIE Latin American Forum, 1 – 3 November 2011, Cancún, Mexico
VR Training System
Contents Introduction
VR training system Architecture Development
ConclusionFeatures
Results
Features
Virtual Environment
Interactive 3D scenarios
Practical and Theoretical Evaluation
Course Manager
The 11th IERE GM/The IERE – IIE Latin American Forum, 1 – 3 November 2011, Cancún, Mexico
VR Training System
Contents Introduction
VR training system Architecture Development
ConclusionFeatures
Results
Features
(1)Information of the manoeuvre step to perform(2)Tools, materials and equipment menu(3)The virtual environment.
This is the workspace where users interact with the system of training. 3D elements are mouse-sensitive objects that tell the user which areas are applicable to click on the current step. Valid clicks trigger 3D animations that show how to install the materials, how to operate the equipment and the location where the technicians should be placed.
The 11th IERE GM/The IERE – IIE Latin American Forum, 1 – 3 November 2011, Cancún, Mexico
Results Contents Introduction
VR training system Architecture Development
ConclusionFeatures
Results
We developed a suite of applications that is being used nation wide to train thousands of linemen of the Mexican electric utility company.
Medium VoltageOverhead Power Lines
High VoltageOverhead Power
Lines
Underground Cables
Med & High Voltage
43Maneuvers
31Maneuvers
44Maneuvers
210Equipments
262Equipments
221Equipments
The 11th IERE GM/The IERE – IIE Latin American Forum, 1 – 3 November 2011, Cancún, Mexico
In many cases, the maintenance work on distribution lines should be carried out without interruption in electricity supply, so live-line maneuvers must be performed, however, these tasks increase the risk of injury from electrical shock, therefore, it is important that electricians be well trained.
The proposed system provides a training tool for low cost and easy to use, helping to ensure the safety of personnel and equipment during the training stages.
This system has been adopted as an alternative to modernize and improve traditional training scheme of the CFE company, besides being a tool to support the certification of knowledge and skills of operational staff of the distribution lines.
Alen3D system has been recognized for its degree of innovation as a tool to support safety and training.
Conclusion Contents Introduction
VR training system Architecture Development
ConclusionFeatures
Results
The 11th IERE GM/The IERE – IIE Latin American Forum, 1 – 3 November 2011, Cancún, Mexico
Thank youIsrael Galván Bobadilla
Instituto de Investigaciones EléctricasGerencia de Tecnologías de la Información
Av. Reforma #113, Edif. 27, Piso 1, Colonia Palmira, Cuernavaca, Morelos, México.
C.P. 62490. TEL: +52 (777) 3 62 38 11 Ext. 7526Fax: 777-362-3881 - Ext. 7526