Introduction to HS2 and Augmented Reality
The UK is on the verge of a revolution in transportation with the introduction of the HS2 high-speed rail network. As a part of this project, a brand new super hub is being built at Old Oak Common in north London. To ensure the sleek operation of this hub, HS2 Ltd is partnering with several corporations to develop an modern training program for workers using augmented reality (AR).
The Challenge of Training Staff
Old Oak Common station might be one in all the busiest and best-connected stations within the UK, serving each HS2 and the Elizabeth line (Crossrail). It is predicted to handle around 275,000 passengers on daily basis, making it crucial for workers to have an in depth knowledge of the station’s workings. However, the challenge is that the station has not been built yet, making it difficult to coach staff in a conventional setting.
Harnessing the Power of Augmented Reality
To overcome this challenge, HS2 Ltd is partnering with PAULEY, the National College for High Speed Rail, and Inventya to develop an AR training program. This program will allow future staff to enter a virtual world and train in delivering an ideal customer experience, station maintenance, and safety. The AR training might be so realistic that staff will have the option to develop the talents they should efficiently manage the station before it’s even built.
Benefits of Augmented Reality Training
The AR training program can have several advantages, including allowing staff to supply feedback to designers on their experience of running the super hub. This feedback might be used to hone plans and avoid making costly changes to the constructing itself. Additionally, the AR technology will enable designers to future-proof the station design, making it easier to make changes and upgrades in the longer term.
Partnering for Success
The partnership between HS2 Ltd, PAULEY, the National College for High Speed Rail, and Inventya is a key a part of the project’s success. Each partner brings their very own expertise to the table, from PAULEY’s experience with AR technology to the National College for High Speed Rail’s knowledge of coaching programs. Together, they’re working with specialist engineers WSP to develop a comprehensive training program that can ensure the sleek operation of Old Oak Common station.
Quotes from Partners
PAULEY’s founder and managing director, Philip Pauley, said: "We’re only beginning to harness the facility of augmented reality. The technology we’re bringing to HS2 enables the wearer to see Old Oak Common station in minute detail. It unlocks huge opportunities to explore, test and refine a digital replica of the station years before the passengers arrive." WSP Technical Director John Harding added: "This technology will enable us to future-proof Old Oak Common station design. In future, it could be used at other stations not only for training but for all staff following a refurbishment or upgrade."
Conclusion
The use of augmented reality to coach staff for the HS2 north London super hub at Old Oak Common is a groundbreaking innovation within the transportation industry. By harnessing the facility of AR, HS2 Ltd and its partners are ensuring that staff might be fully prepared to oversee the station efficiently and supply an ideal customer experience. As the UK’s transportation network continues to evolve, it is probably going that we are going to see more examples of AR getting used to coach staff and improve the passenger experience. With its potential to revolutionize the best way we train staff and design stations, AR is an exciting development that might be value watching within the years to come back.
