HaptX Inc., the leading provider of lifelike touch feedback technology, has announced a Memorandum of Understanding with Consolidated Nuclear Security (CNS) to collaborate on advancing virtual reality (VR) technology and accelerating its use in U.S. government training missions. This momentous announcement took place at the Augmented and Virtual Reality Policy Conference in Washington, D.C., where HaptX co-founder, Professor Robert Crockett, presented to U.S. government representatives.
CNS is responsible for managing and operating the Y-12 National Security Complex, which supports the National Nuclear Security Administration. The Y-12 Complex plays a critical role in ensuring the safety and effectiveness of the U.S. nuclear weapons deterrent. In addition to safeguarding nuclear materials and fueling naval reactors, Y-12 also engages in manufacturing technologies, prototyping, safeguards and security, technical computing, and environmental stewardship.
To further advance their capabilities, Y-12 has established the Oak Ridge Enhanced Technology and Training Center (ORETTC) in Tennessee. ORETTT specializes in training individuals responsible for safeguarding nuclear and radioactive materials, as well as first responders and other nuclear operations experts. ORETTT is at the forefront of incorporating augmented reality (AR), virtual reality (VR), and extended reality (XR) into their training programs.
As part of their collaboration, Y-12 is integrating HaptX Gloves into their VR training environments. The HaptX Gloves provide users with a heightened sense of immersion, allowing for natural interaction and true-contact haptics. This is particularly important for training environments that involve complex and precise procedures, as the gloves enable trainees to develop muscle memory and situational awareness.
Ashley Stowe, the ORETTT director, praised the collaborative approach, stating, “This collaborative approach brings together government and industry to research AR, VR, and XR technologies that will expand the scope and speed of technology development.”
A significant achievement resulting from this collaboration is the development of a virtual glovebox simulator. The simulator is used in first-responder training scenarios to demonstrate high-hazard, low-occurrence response situations. Glovebox containment units are used by personnel to handle hazardous materials, and training individuals in the correct techniques and skills is crucial. The HaptX Gloves enhance the training experience by providing trainees with a realistic sense of strain and mobility restrictions without exposing them to actual dangers.
Stowe expressed her satisfaction with the partnership, stating, “Working in a glovebox is not familiar to most new hires. Incorporating the HaptX gloves enhances the training experience to prepare trainees to work with hazardous materials with restricted mobility without introducing the hazard to the trainee.” She also highlighted that the collaboration enables the training of crews of engineers, scientists, and operators to work together in completing manufacturing tasks.
To replicate realistic touch sensations, Y-12 instructional designers utilized the HaptX Gloves DK2 Development Kit, making them early adopters of the new multiuser haptics feature in the HaptX Software Development Kit. This feature allows multiple users to work in the same virtual environment and feel the same objects regardless of their physical location.
Professor Robert Crockett, co-founder of HaptX, expressed his enthusiasm for the collaboration, stating, “We are proud and inspired to collaborate with Y-12 to develop a safer way to help nuclear engineers and scientists become even more effective in their operations. They are taking bold steps towards deploying touch simulation in systems that help build real muscle memory, physical dexterity, and situational awareness.”
HaptX will be showcasing the Y-12 glovebox training simulator at the ARVR Policy Conference in Washington, D.C., and other upcoming exhibitions.
Consolidated Nuclear Security, LLC operates the Y-12 National Security Complex and the Pantex Plant for the U.S. National Nuclear Security Administration. Their focus is on performance excellence, safety, security, zero defects, and timely delivery. Bechtel National, Inc. is the lead member of CNS, with minority members including Leidos, Inc., ATK Launch Systems, LLC, and SOC LLC.
HaptX is a technology company that specializes in simulating touch sensation with unparalleled realism. Their haptic gloves, which mimic conventional work gloves, leverage advances in materials science and manufacturing techniques. Headquartered in Redmond, WA, HaptX also has offices in San Luis Obispo, CA.
The collaboration between HaptX and CNS not only represents a major milestone in the advancement of VR technology, but it also demonstrates the potential of haptic feedback to enhance training in high-stakes industries such as nuclear security. By combining their expertise, these two organizations are enabling a safer and more effective way to train nuclear engineers and scientists, ensuring the continued safety and security of the United States.
