Dayton Researchers Receive Augmented Reality Grants
The University of Dayton Research Institute has reportedly been awarded a three-year, $12.5 million contract to design, develop and transfer augmented reality tools to the U.S. Air Force.
According to a news release from the university, the program will focus on the development of several extended reality systems to support Air Force activities such as spraying, coating and robotics control.
About the AR Tech
AR, the release states, uses software to produce digital objects that seem as though they are embedded in the user's actual environment. The virtual perception is reportedly made with the use of specialized glasses worn by the user, or through an app viewed on a smart phone.
"Consumers have become familiar with augmented reality in gaming apps, such as Pokémon Go, and in online shopping, when they want to see how a bookshelf or a table might look in their own living room. We are expanding this technology to help users performing maintenance applications safely and effectively," said psychologist Drew Bowers, group leader for human factors in UDRI's sensor and software systems division.
The release added that UDRI has extensive, growing expertise in developing extended reality tools—including virtual and augmented reality—along with artificial intelligence, machine learning and human-machine teaming technologies to support manufacturing, maintenance and other applications for a variety of clients.
According to a report from the Dayton Daily News, work will be performed at the university is expected to be completed by November 2026.
The contract was part of a competitive acquisition, and one offer was received, the DOD said. Fiscal 2022 and 2023 research, development, test and evaluation funds in the amount of $12,530,010 are reportedly being obligated at the time of award.
The report states that the contract was from the Air Force Research Laboratory at Wright Patterson Air Force Base.
Other Air Force News
Last year, the Air Force inaugurated its 31st Maintenance Group corrosion control facility renovation project at the Aviano Air Base in Italy. A ribbon cutting ceremony was held on July 11 with 31st Fighter Wing personnel.
The renovations are part of a $1.6 million project to enable Airmen to accomplish multiple full-scale aircraft paint jobs simultaneously, while saving money and time.
The facility now includes an aircraft wash facility, small parts paint booth and separate clean and dirty rooms. According to the release, it also features a new sprinkler and foam fire suppression systems, a generator, a ventilation system and plenum door for laminar air flow.
With these additions, Aviano Air Base was reportedly able to remove a permissible deviation waiver for the airfield and reduce the building footprint by two builds.
The 31st CE Engineering Flight, Fire Department, MXS Fabrication Flight and MXG Facilities Team worked to complete the new corrosion control facility, which the Air Force says will have a significant impact on Aviano’s mission and keep more jets in the air.
