Transport for London – Virtual Training

VR and AR

VIRTUAL REALITY TRAINING MATERIALS

Buzz are successfully aligning TfL’s internal communications with new technology, allowing them to deliver training at a fraction of the cost of real-world locomotive environments.

These projects are helping to reinvent the training structure for TfL, allowing drivers to simulate working in a cab, with an instructor asking them to carry out tasks such as driving the train, stopping and opening doors. Buzz developed simple, engaging and educational software, used on the Oculus Rift headset. We coupled this with Leap Motion sensors to record hand movements.

Buzz created a seamless internal communications training platform for TfL. This project was at the forefront of technology when commissioned and the results were widely praised and resulted in Buzz being awarded the Best SME award by TfL in 2017.

A unique aspect of the experience at that time was allowing two people to each use a VR headset and hand tracker to interact together in the virtual world.

IMMERSIVE MAINTENANCE

Immersive maintenance is our latest program development. By breaking down content, and not overloading the user, we allow TfL employees to further their skill sets. Many vital tasks can be carried out in this virtual reality; bringing trains into bay, stopping at a designated marker and then carrying out various actions such as choosing appropriate safety equipment, changing brakes and draining fluids.

AUGMENTED REALITY

We worked closely with the transport giant to create a new augmented reality experience using Hololens. This involved launching a real-world overlay of technical info and video, detailing maintenance items that are automatically recognised by the headset’s sensors.

Buzz work collaboratively with Engine House on TfL projects. Engine House are another Cornwall-based company, who create 3D environments and design styling assets for Buzz.

Thank you for the new version. The introduction of sound has really added a new dynamic and greater level of immersion to it.

Turan Suleyman Electronic Engineer