The virtual world of parachuting (From Bradford Telegraph and Argus)

The virtual world of parachuting

10:33am Tuesday 8th March 2011 in Ex-Service Notes By Craig Mitchell

The Parachute Training School at RAF Brize Norton recently opened a new virtual reality parachute trainer which uses the latest digital imagery to create a realistic virtual world in which to train Service personnel.

The new trainer (demonstrated above by RAF Sgt Graeme Rose) allows parachute students to be suspended by harnesses and wear virtual reality goggles to practise jumps in a range of realistic environments.

Instructors are able to simulate rain, fog and snow, and can choose any time of day or night. Wind speed and direction can also be adjusted to make for a more challenging descent. They are also able to simulate emergency situations so that the parachutist can practise drills in the safety of the simulation. The performance can also be recorded on video so instructors can provide feedback to improve skills.

The trainer is able to simulate three environments for the students to jump in and challenges can be introduced to include the proximity of a village, a wooded area, or water. Also, the students can practise jumping as individuals or as a ‘stick’.

It is intended that the trainer will give students a real-time experience in a virtual world that simulates a parachute descent in either free fall or static line.

DIARY DATES: Today: The Royal Artillery Association meets at 19.30 hours at The RAOB Club, Otley Road.

Thursday: The Guiseley branch of the Royal British Legion meets at The Guide Hut, The Green, Guiseley.

Monday: The REME Association meets at 19.30 hours at Slackside Working Men’s Club.

The West Yorkshire branch of The Suez Veterans Association meets at 11.30 hours at the TA centre, George Street, Wakefield – book attendance with Rod Bolmer on (01924) 827393 before 13.00 hours the prior Thursday.