Mixed Reality Headsets Enhance Immersive Solutions

Leonardo and Varjo have agreed to collaborate in incorporating the latter’s advanced mixed reality (MR) technology into Leonardo’s aircraft training devices, the companies announced on 8 March.

Starting from Varjo’s latest XR-3 Focal Edition headset, first used in Leonardo’s Smart Chair for training scenarios of future-generation aircraft, the agreement will see Leonardo develop next-generation immersive training solutions that leverage Varjo headsets for multiple use cases across the pilot training curriculum. The companies will work in close partnership to drive innovation and develop solutions that meet the rigorous demands of the aircrew training community. “The development of our next-generation training solutions with Varjo is based on specific requirements which will be key factors in competitiveness and will make it possible to improve the performance of our products, with a direct return on the market offer,” explained Giuseppe Pietroniro, Head of Simulation and Training Systems at Leonardo’s Aircraft Division. “Leonardo simulation & training experience, coupled with advanced Varjo technology, will allow our products to increase [pilot] training experience, bringing it into a more immersive environment […] both within the specific customer training pipelines and within the scope of [the] International Flight Training School, [enabling] the continuous technological innovation rate offered by the campus.”

“With the superior visual precision enabled by the new Varjo XR-3 Focal Edition, trainees can be engaged in mixed reality training that replicates real-life conditions by operating physical avionics, controls, and dashboards while flying in a fully virtual environment. We will continue working closely with Leonardo in developing best-in-class XR solutions for future pilot training,” added Joachim Dekker, VP of Sales, EMEA and APAC, at Varjo. The current procedural training device is based on a multi-touch screen and visual display system for simulators, both of which will be replaced by Varjo’s MR headsets. Leonardo is already introducing these new technologies and looking to future challenges, with the aim of always offering a distinctive product.