Case Study: University of Maryland advances flight simulation research with Varjo XR headsets

University of Maryland advances flight simulation research with Varjo and $3 million in funding

The University of Maryland's Extended Reality Flight Simulation and Control Lab, directed by Assistant Professor Umberto Saetti, is pioneering aerospace research to enhance aviation safety and pilot training efficiency. Their challenge was to conduct advanced VR/XR research requiring the highest levels of visual precision, realism, and seamless integration with other simulation technologies. To meet this need, the lab selected Varjo XR-3 and XR-4 Focal Edition headsets.

The solution implemented by Varjo provided the lab with ultra-high-resolution visuals, particularly for close-range cockpit interaction, and excellent mixed reality passthrough. The Varjo headsets integrated seamlessly with the lab's BRUNNER simulators and other key technologies, making setup straightforward. The results include groundbreaking research into multi-sensory feedback and pilot cognitive workload, with early findings indicating that haptic cues can accelerate pilot training. The lab also values Varjo's excellent customer and technical support, which has consistently met their needs for their advanced research projects.

University of Maryland (umd)