Integration of Augmented Reality with Computational Fluid Dynamics for Power Plant Training

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Abstract- This research describes the motivations and technical approach for combining Augmented Reality with Computational Fluid Dynamics to develop materials for training on a large boiler of a coal-fired power plant. A number of different software were used for this approach including Gambit and Fluent for numerical simulation, 3dsMax for 3D modeling and visualization, and D'fusion for Augmented Reality. The result leverages the benefits of existing simulation methods and emerging interactive technologies to allow presenters to show characteristics of any numerical simulation in a vivid and convenient way.

The technical description of the simulation and visualization contains a series of complex steps and components, including the integration of the data, the construction of the geometry, and the analysis of the properties of flow within the boiler. The methods used to present this data with augmented reality can be expanded to many different areas.

Keywords: Augmented Reality, Training, Power Plant, Boiler, CFD, Visualization

1 Introduction

Trainees at a coal-fired power station typically receive comprehensive training in boiler operation procedures through traditional two-dimensional (2D), non-scaled representations of components in a classroom environment. It is difficult to fully understand the complex workings of boiler operation in such environments. In general, there is a known issue in transferring learned concepts from a classroom setting to practical application in real world settings [1,2]. Improvements for the boiler training are being sought the development of computer simulations and different forms of interaction to enhance instruction. Initial efforts have already been made at Purdue University Calumet's Center for Innovation through Visualization and Simulation to combine computational fluid dynamics (CFD) and immersive 3D Visualization to enhance understanding of complex industrial processes [3]. These have been applied to develop a virtual boiler unit using Virtual Reality (VR) and CFD so that a 3D model could be used in the training process. However, the developed virtual package still has some limitations due to the necessity of specialized 3D display. This can limit the accessibility for trainees to gain the full benefits of the VR model.

With the purpose of optimizing and maximizing the advantages of CFD and 3D visualization, a further effort is underway to develop methods to use standard equipment such as laptops and mobile devices to extend the training capabilities of...