Press Release

Issued by Dassault Aviation.

February 28, 2017

Dassault Aviation has developed 3D virtual reality technology that is now used to train maintenance engineers and technicians. The technology will be on display at the Australian International Airshow taking place from February 28-March 5 at Avalon Airport in Geelong, Australia

Falcon immersive practical training is intended as a supplement for engineers and technicians undertaking certified practical training for Falcon business jets at Dassault Aviation's training center in Bordeaux-Merignac, France.

One of the key benefits of using 3D virtual reality is it allows those taking the course, to more readily see and practice on the different parts of the aircraft airframe and systems.

“We can have up to 11 people in each course, one instructor and 10 trainees and it can be a bit time-consuming waiting to take turns to go inside the mechanical bays and other tight spaces on the real aircraft,” said Jacques Chauvet, senior vice president worldwide customer service at Dassault Aviation. “With our immersive training tool, trainees simply put on their headsets and find themselves in the same virtual spot, even in tight spaces, with a perfect view of what the instructor is doing.”

The Falcon immersive practical training tool includes a hand tracking capability, which allows operations in the virtual world to precisely mirror operations performed in the real world. This way trainees are able to observe in real time exactly what the instructor is doing at all times.

“3D virtual reality and digital modeling have been pioneered by Dassault,” added Chauvet. “With our new tool, trainees can access the full digital mock-up of the aircraft and experience full 3D virtual reality down to the slightest detail.”

Any part or component, including wiring, tubing and fittings, can be brought into view by simply stripping away the covering panels and structure in virtual reality to reveal the inner workings of the aircraft. The trainee can roam around the aircraft at will and even simulate inserting tools and turning nuts and bolts.

Falcon immersive practical training was introduced into the Bordeaux-Mérignac practical training syllabus in late 2016 on the Falcon 7X. Sessions on the Falcon 8X, Falcon 900LX and Falcon 2000S/LXS will begin soon.