Extending Interactive Electronic Technical Manuals (IETMs) with Real and Virtual Animated Content for Maintenance Task Training

摘要

This report documents the research associated with the design and development of a prototype virtual training system referred to as the Course Resource with Active Materials (CRAM) which is intended to help augment the training of aircraft maintenance procedures. The system is intended to help Air Force personnel receiving initial skills training in aircraft maintenance career fields gain deeper insight and knowledge of system, procedural, and safety/hazard information associated with a maintenance task prior to performing the task on the actual aircraft. The system uses a virtual coach agent to guide the user's instruction, giving information on hazards as necessary to maximize knowledge retention. The system allows multiple users to collaborate on a training procedure, and to communicate during the procedure. The system also allows instructors to augment the standard instructions for completing a maintenance procedure with their own course material. Also discussed is the implementation of such a system in a manner which maximizes reusability and the efficiency of creating new content.