A usability assessment of virtual reality simulation for aerial gunner training

The 58th Training Support Squadron (58 TRSS) has begun use of a one-of-a-kind virtual reality (VR) simulator for training aerial gunner/scanner (AG/S) tasks. This paper briefly describes the development considerations of the device and an initial usability assessment of the helmet mounted display (HMD) and the helmet. Eleven experienced rotary-wing instructors with varying levels of experience in the Aerial Gunner Scanner Simulator (AGSS) were surveyed. Their ratings and comments regarding 17 helmet components are summarized. The results suggested that overall the helmet is acceptable. However, critical components require improvements. There is a need to improve the cathode ray tubes (CRTs) and to increase the update rates for the head trackers. The results also indicated that helmet comfort factors and fitting procedures (e.g., alignment) are problematic. Several recommendations are made based on these central findings applicable to both AGSS-users in particular and VR-users in general.