With Audace, Orano DS has created “Iclarec VR,” a virtual reality training program designed to teach operators how to clean the water in nuclear power plant swimming pools. The goal is to simulate various scenarios so that technicians can train in a safe environment before working in actual pools.
What do you learn with "Iclarec VR"?
- Water Clarification: Learn to clarify and clean the water in nuclear power plant pools.
- Object Retrieval: Shows how to recover objects that may be inconveniently located at the bottom of the pools (such as screws).
How does it work?
Users wear a virtual reality headset, such as the HTC Vive Pro or Oculus Rift. They are then immersed in a simulation of a nuclear reactor building. Using a virtual “vacuum wand,” they practice various object retrieval scenarios. These scenarios include steps such as checking valves, connecting equipment, or immersing the tool at different depths. Additionally, unexpected situations, such as issues with the pump, can be introduced by the instructor to test the learner’s skills.
What is the goal of Iclarec II?
The learner becomes familiar with the procedures and acquires the necessary skills to carry out the mission safely.
The expertise gained through digital training?
mission-wise: The learner must assemble the wands and nozzles according to the scenario to perform the suction. An interactive questionnaire is also provided at the beginning of each scenario.
And because Audace always goes further in realism and quality of its training, the control of ICLAREC is done with a real pole held by the learner, which they encounter during their immersion. This allows them to receive more significant haptic feedback.
Several scenarios have been designed:
- Check the opening of the discharge valves and the closing of the drainage valve before immersion
- Connect the suction hose to Iclarec II by following the on-screen instructions.
- Turn on the electrical panel and press the reset button.
- Confirm that Iclarec II is filled with water and that the low water sensor is active.
- Ask the learner to close the drain valve using a wand.
- Fully immerse Iclarec II at the internal compartment level.
- …
Of course, the learner is tested with variables related to pump flow, for example. These can be activated by the instructor via the PC interface. These steps help the learner become familiar with the procedures and acquire the skills needed to perform the mission safely.
