A multi-user virtual 3d training environment to advance collaboration among crane operator and ground personnel in blind lifts

As one of the most expensive and frequently used resources, cranes play an essential role in the operation of activities on construction sites. They require certified operators whose knowledge of codes and regulations is essential for safe and productive lift tasks. Blind spots pose a significant issue for crane operators as they limit the crane operator's field-of-view that potentially slows down execution of such tasks. Often collaboration between crane operators and ground personnel is limited and requires advanced communication techniques, such as radios, to resolve the limited visibility issue. Although visualization technology has been widely adopted in practice to enhance visibility, education and training programs related to cranes lack multi-user collaboration environments. This paper presents an approach towards developing a virtual training environment that allows multiple subjects to participate in lifting operations cooperatively. Through a 3D real-time immersive user visualization interface users are able to perform hands-on tasks such as operating cranes and directing blind lifts. In addition, geometry constraints and safety hazards are introduced to augment the simulation-fidelity of the virtual training environment. A test involving two users was conducted and the results show that the proposed approach can effectively simulate collaborative tasks in crane lifting operations. This study has potential to enhance the productivity and safety of crane lifting operations.