We are pleased to announce that Jalaja Shanmugalingam, a PhD student in our research group, has secured funding from Mitacs Accelerate for her project titled "Enhancing Skilled Trades Training in the Industry through VR, Gamification, and Digital Twin Technologies." This research is being conducted in partnership with Enigma Design Solutions Inc. and aims to address significant challenges in the training of skilled trades, particularly in rigging operations.
Research Overview:
In Canada, the absence of a standardized national classification for rigging skills has led to inconsistencies in training and heightened safety risks. Recognizing the potential of Virtual Reality (VR), known for its applications in fields such as medical, military, and aviation training, this research evaluates the effectiveness of VR training simulators as a dynamic and interactive environment for skill development.
The study aims to integrate VR with advanced data analysis techniques, including Dynamic Time Warping (DTW) and deep learning algorithms, to create an immersive training experience. By analyzing multivariate time series data, the research will develop methods for real-time performance assessment and error correction, ultimately targeting improved skill acquisition and reduced injury risks.
Funding Details:
The total funding awarded for this project is $225,000, which will support Jalaja's research and development efforts in enhancing the training landscape for skilled trades in Canada. Notably, Kaushall Senthil Nathan, a Master’s student, is also a recipient of this award, highlighting the collaborative nature of this research initiative.
We are excited about the potential impact of this project on the skilled trades industry and look forward to the advancements in training that will emerge from this innovative approach.