VR-simulator for operation and maintenance of complete switchgear KRU-10kV introduced at Rosenergoatom

2021: Implementation of the VR simulator

JSC Concern Rosenergoatom, which is part of the Electric Power Division of ROSATOM State Corporation, has introduced a VR-simulator for the operation and maintenance of the complete switchgear KRU-10kV for training electric workers at Leningrad NPP-2. Krok announced this on December 21, 2021. This digital solution will reduce the training time, improve the quality of training and increase the level of qualification of NPP personnel, reduce injuries and the likelihood of accidents, as well as ensure accident-free work with power units and equipment.

The developer of the software and hardware complex was the team of the CROC Immersive Technologies. The solution was implemented on the basis of the import substitution operating system Astra Linux as part of the program of digitalization of the nuclear industry.

{{quote 'At the Concern, we always strive to optimize work processes in order to improve working conditions and ensure the safety of personnel. The introduction of a virtual simulator for the operation and repair of KRU-10kV at NPP is a difficult task in itself, which must be implemented in the conditions of import substitution. As of December 2021, the project was put into industrial operation in the training unit of SELA-2. We have already received the first positive reviews about working on a VR simulator from the electric workshop staff. This gives us reason to continue to use virtual reality technology in optimizing work processes in general and in training in particular, "said Dmitry Gasten, Director of Personnel Management and Social Policy at Concern Rosenergoatom JSC. }}

The VR simulator contains 6 target scenarios that allow staff to regularly develop practical skills in operating and maintaining electrical equipment in a safe virtual environment, without endangering themselves.

Virtual reality simulator is a digital replica of two main NPP locations and more than 500 models of equipment, tools, facilities in the premises. Simulator scripts are built in full compliance with instructions, regulations, forms and switching programs. Due to this, employees during training immerse themselves in a full-fledged copy of the workplace and practice all routine actions before automatism. This makes it possible to increase their level of awareness when working on real equipment and reduce the risk of incidents and emergencies. It is planned that on average, up to 1,000 specialists will be trained on this simulator per year.

The results of training and testing of personnel are automatically generated into a report received by the manager, and video recordings of training sessions are designed to work out errors. The simulator is controlled from the training module, where the instructor assigns scenarios for passing the simulator and sees transparent statistics for each employee.

Our task was to develop a full-fledged training solution for electricians, which would allow us to practice practical skills in operating electrical equipment in a safe environment at any time. Virtual reality technology in this case helps to solve such a problem as efficiently as possible, both in terms of labor and time costs, and in terms of the project economy. The examination of the CRIC in the field of electrical safety, HSE, training gave us the opportunity to implement a solution that meets the functional requirements of the customer. And thanks to the high qualification of the team in the field of analytics and the development of VR simulators for industrial enterprises, we have worked out all technical requirements, including the implementation of the solution for the Astra Linux operating system, "said Ilya Simonov, director of the Digital Solutions for Industry division of the CRIC.