Combining 2D and 3D Virtual Reality for Improved Learning

Abstract

Maintenance training for modern weapons systems requires learning procedures that integrate diagnostic skills with remove and replace skills. Modern weapons systems such as M270A1 MLRS, M1A2 tank or the M2A3 Bradley Fighting Vehicle are complex systems, employing multiple computers, sensors, and displays, linked by networks of digital buses. These weapons systems make use of this digital equipment to provide extensive on-board diagnostics. Maintainers also use Electronic Technical Manuals and advanced Test, Maintenance, and Diagnostic Equipment (TMDE) to troubleshoot these weapon systems. But there is still the need at a certain point in the diagnostic process to find and disconnect cables and check for damaged connectors on the equipment or the cables using basic tools like multimeters, break-out boxes, etc. Army maintenance training is adopting computer-based virtual maintenance training as adjunct to more expensive constructive and live hands-on training. The virtual maintenance training is used as a prerequisite for constructive and live hands-on training. Key to the success of computer-based virtual maintenance training is appropriate use of 2D and 3D virtual environments, and how the vehicle, the Line Replaceable Units (LRUs), the displays, and the TMDE are presented to the learner. This paper describes lessons learned in the use of 2D and 3D virtual environments for maintenance training on the M1A2, M1A2 SEP, and M270A1 MLRS, and on-going development of these approaches with the Web-based Interactive Motor Pool.