Introduction to Augmented Reality in Radiation Training

The US Department of Energy’s Oak Ridge National Laboratory has developed a way using augmented reality (AR) to create accurate visual representations of ionising radiation. This technology has been licensed by Teletrix, a firm based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, that makes a speciality of creating advanced simulation tools for training radiation control staff.

How the Technology Works

The licensed method was originally used to create the Virtual Interaction with Physics-Enhanced Reality (VIPER) application at Oak Ridge National Laboratory. This technology works by dividing a physical space into cubes, each representing a volumetric value of ionising radiation by dose. A 3D interpolation of those values is then used to create a picture of gradient contours which can be overlaid on a real-world view through an AR headset. As a trainee moves through the space, navigating across the contours, the device calculates real-time, yet simulated, exposure based on the user’s behavior.

Benefits of the Technology

According to Michael Smith from Oak Ridge National Laboratory, "We combined physics-based data with a gaming interface that gives a visible platform to make something invisible feel and appear real – we took science and cinematography and brought them together." This technology provides a safer and more practical solution to train staff who cope with ionising radiation. By using AR, trainees can visualize the radiation and understand the way it behaves in several environments, reducing the chance of exposure.

Teletrix and Radiation Training

Teletrix is an organization that makes a speciality of creating simulation tools for radiological and gas detection training. Their products are widely utilized by utilities, emergency response organizations, and government agencies. Jason O’Connell, sales and business development manager for Teletrix, stated, "Our company is solely dedicated to improving radiation training – our tagline is ‘Prepare Through Simulation’ – and making that training more realistic." One of their products, VIZRAD, is a virtual reality software system that simulates contamination on individuals and workspaces, training users to properly scan someone with a detector and providing objective feedback on technique.

The Future of Radiation Training

The partnership between Oak Ridge National Laboratory and Teletrix is anticipated to revolutionize the best way radiation control staff are trained. By using AR technology, trainees can receive more realistic and effective training, reducing the chance of incidents and making them higher prepared for his or her jobs. As O’Connell noted, "Having far more realistic readings in your instruments results in better-prepared employees, better-prepared trainees, fewer incidents – this technology will help make people on this industry safer."

Conclusion

The use of augmented reality in radiation training is a major step forward in making staff safer and more practical. By providing a visible representation of ionising radiation, trainees can higher understand methods to navigate and work in environments with radiation. The partnership between Oak Ridge National Laboratory and Teletrix is anticipated to have a positive impact on the industry, and the technology is prone to turn into a typical tool in radiation training. As Smith added, "Once you will have seen what the radiation in your working environment looks like, you’ll be able to’t unsee it. AR provides a way to coach people to have a greater visceral understanding of how ionising radiation behaves."