Intelligent virtual environment for process training (original) (raw)

An intelligent virtual environment is described for training users in the operation of complex engineering systems. The environment combines an intelligent agent facility, for tutoring, guiding and/or supervising the training; an object-oriented virtual environment engine, for displaying the engineering system; and a simulator, for simulating the system controls. The intelligent agent facility includes: (a) a hierarchical process knowledge base, (b) a rule-based expert system for natural language understanding, and (c) a human-like virtual characters engine. Three types of objects are used for representing the process knowledge, namely, processes, steps, and constraints. An application of the environment to the interactive training for operating a NASA wind tunnel is described. Two agents in the environment can perform several functions, including conducting an interactive virtual tour of the facility; guiding and supervising the training, as well as certifying the trainee.