PRAGUE, Czech Republic, Apr 26, 2022 – Vrgineers developed a unique next-generation virtual and mixed reality pilot training system. The solution consists of the newest version of Vrgineers’ XTAL 3, and Lockheed Martin’s groundbreaking Prepar3D visual simulation platform.
Vrgineers’ XTAL leads the industry with a 180° field of view and two 4K resolution displays, offering extreme clarity and unparalleled fidelity. It is the first time a physical cockpit has been fused with a wide field of view mixed reality headset that provides a supremely 1:1 immersive simulation.
Lockheed Martin’s Prepar3D version 5 supports XTAL 3 mixed reality technology out of the box. This unique combination offers realistic haptic feedback thanks to the ability to see your own hands and therefore interact with the physical instrument panel. Cadets find themselves in a completely immersive environment that allows them to train muscle memory.
Created for the F-15, F-16 and F-35, this platform is now being rolled out for other modern aircraft. The advanced mixed reality capabilities of the XTAL 3 has resulted in it being adopted by Pison Technology (www.pison.com) as the core headset and mixed reality solution for two distinct Phase II SBIR Program R&D contracts that collectively seek to develop advanced simulation technologies for manned flight simulators, funded by AFWERX (Contract No. FA8621-21-C-0052) for the U.S. Air Force and the U.S. Navy (Contract No. N6833521C0217).
“Flying with the XTAL in a full-motion hydraulic sim and rolling in on a low-level bombing run literally felt like I was back in the cockpit, heart rate elevated, mental focus 100% on threat avoidance and target acquisition – incredible,” commented Bryant Church, U.S. Navy Aviator.
As a result of this joint effort, every existing Prepar3D user will experience a seamless transition when switching from data-projectors or display-based simulators to the XTAL. Moreover, Lockheed Martin’s Prepar3D version 5 supports XTAL mixed reality technology out of the box, which unleashes unlimited training potential when used with a physical instrument panel.
Vrgineers are pushing the envelope of what is possible in a simulation while keeping costs in mind. “Such a setup, with a fully operational cockpit and XTAL mixed reality solution combined with Prepar3D is less expensive than a standard dome installation and has a smaller footprint” says Marek Polčák, CEO of Vrgineers. “Thanks to these improvements, time spent in simulators is expected to grow rapidly, saving flight and maintenance costs and improving pilots’ battle-readiness to unprecedented levels,” Polčák added.
About Vrgineers
Vrgineers, Inc. is a leader in delivering next-generation virtual and mixed reality pilot training systems (Synthetic Training Environment, STE) to professional and military clients.
Vrgineers’ pilot training solution includes portable trainers ready to be packed and taken on missions; reconfigurable classroom simulators that support almost all platforms, from the T6 Texan to the F35; and custom 1:1 simulators that are built specifically for any type of helicopter, jet-fighter, or airliner, and include a fully-functional cockpit replica.
All simulators employ the virtual and mixed reality XTAL headset with the highest fidelity, resolution, and widest field of view available. The latest XTAL 3 won the prestigious Red Dot Product Design Award in 2020.
Vrgineers actively improves the training experience for clients like the U.S. Air Force, U.S. Navy, the Royal Air Force, Lockheed Martin, Gulfstream, BAE Systems, NASA, and other technological pioneers. Recognized as a technological leader, Vrgineers was selected by the Small Business Innovative Research program within the U.S. Naval Air Systems Command to develop a next-generation mixed reality pilot training solution, and by the U.S. Air Force to deliver multi-purpose reconfigurable simulators.
Aside from the aerospace industry, Vrgineers’ technologies are being used to design revolutionary products and remotely control heavy machinery. The company delivered virtual reality solutions for brands such as Audi, Skoda, Lamborghini, McLaren, RedBull, and Westfield.
Vgineers was co-founded in 2017 by CEO Marek Polčák and currently employs an international team of 50 specialists that combine a high level of technical skills (mostly Ph.D. & Engineer graduates) with industry professionals.
About the XTAL
Designed for professional use, the XTAL headset delivers unlimited capabilities for military clients. Equipped with 8K resolution, a 180° field of view, and automatically adjustable lenses, the XTAL provides unprecedented immersive experiences, thus positioning itself on the forefront of professional visualization equipment for simulations.
Offering a high degree of customization, Vrgineers can deliver individual projects where the XTAL is adapted to specific requirements, such as mounting goggles to the pilot’s helmet or oxygen mask, or even using it for space exploration. Trusted by the U.S. Department of Defense, Vrgineers’ technologies provide the highest possible level of immersion, and are employed by organizations such as the NASA, Airbus Defense & Space, and BAE Systems.
