BBN Technologies

Virtual, Intelligent Training Environments

BBN has developed intelligent systems to aid in the design, operation, and repair of complex devices. This work combines virtual environments and intelligent tutors to enhance the effectiveness of simulation-based training. Often these environments include an embedded tutoring agent that prompts and critiques user actions during exercises. Also, these systems often incorporate extensive human behavior modeling and voice-enabled human-computer interaction.

• Conning Officer Virtual Environment - In the COVE project BBN created a Navy shiphandler's visual environment that included support for natural voice communication with simulated bridge personnel. COVE is a very effective tool for teaching shiphandling skills that depend on Seaman's Eye, which encompasses an understanding of ship dynamics, the interpretation of perceptual cues and other information available to a Conning Officer on the bridge, and the application of rules-of-thumb for knowing how to anticipate and respond to situations that arise while maneuvering.
• STEAMER - One of the first simulation-based maintenance trainers, STEAMER provided instruction in maintenance and safety procedures for Navy shipboard propulsion systems.
• F-16 Tutor - In a project sponsored by the Air Force, BBN produced a dynamic, highly visual training system for maintenance and troubleshooting of F-16 avionics systems. Based on the principles of Basic Job Skills developed by the Air Force, the F-16 Avionics Troubleshooting Tutor uses audio and video of actual F-16 aircraft to maximize student involvement. It incorporates a simulation of the avionics system functions and signals that lets users navigate freely to any part of the aircraft, run tests, make measurements, and replace components. It guides and critiques user's actions by comparing them against those of an expert troubleshooter. The F-16 Tutor was deployed to Air Force active and reserve squadrons.