Innovative MR Fire Training Using VR Developed by Japan XR Center and Hiroshima City

Introduction

In a progressive initiative aimed at enhancing safety training, Japan XR Center, located in Nakano, Tokyo, has collaborated with the Hiroshima City Fire Department to develop an advanced Mixed Reality (MR) fire training program. This innovative training utilizes Virtual Reality (VR) technology allowing users to learn fire extinguisher techniques in a safe, immersive environment.

Overview of the MR Fire Training Program

The training experience is designed to engage participants through a realistic simulation. Upon donning a VR headset, users enter a mixed reality scenario where actual furniture is combined with computer-generated flames. A significant feature of this product is the user interaction; participants must respond to a virtual fire by locating and using a virtual fire extinguisher within their surroundings.

Training Steps

1. Initial Challenge: Users are presented with a fire scenario without prior knowledge of how to operate a fire extinguisher, leading to their first attempt at extinguishing the fire.
2. Instructional Learning: After the initial attempt, users receive educational support through instructional videos and step-by-step breakdowns on how to effectively use a fire extinguisher.
3. Final Attempt: Equipped with the knowledge gained from the lessons, users reattempt to extinguish the fire, reinforcing the skills learned. This hands-on approach helps participants to not only understand the mechanics of using a fire extinguisher but also enables them to experience the urgency and anxiety of dealing with flames.

Advantages of Using MR Technology

This innovative approach offers numerous benefits:

- Safety: The program eliminates the need for actual flames, providing a risk-free environment for training.
- Immersive Experience: Users experience a heightened sense of immersion that mimics real-life fire situations, which can be vital for retaining critical information in emergencies.
- Weather Independence: Unlike traditional training that might depend on outdoor conditions, this MR training can be conducted indoors, making it accessible year-round.

The Meet Hiroshima Initiative

The Meet Hiroshima is a startup support program organized by Hiroshima Prefecture aimed at fostering connections between local and external startup businesses with authorities and enterprises in the region. The goal is to address social issues and invigorate the local economy. For the 2024 program, 34 innovative startups were chosen from 326 applicants that showcased potential in fields like disaster prevention, environment, and healthcare. This MR fire training project was selected based on its innovative approach to firefighting training.

Background of the Initiative

The Hiroshima City Fire Department had previously employed stationary monitors for fire training exercises. However, as the equipment aged, they identified a clear need for an upgrade. Traditional renovation would incur significant costs, which prompted them to explore alternative methods. Upon joining the Meet Hiroshima program, the fire department found alignment between their needs and the VR/MR capabilities presented by Japan XR Center, leading to the approval of this project.

Japan XR Center's Expertise

Japan XR Center boasts a strong background in developing VR attractions, with notable projects including constant operations at Tokyo Dome and VR applications for the hospitality sector. Their most recent contribution includes creating a VR content focusing on the necessary actions for employees during an earthquake at a major supermarket chain.

Future Outlook

Building on the success of the current project, Japan XR Center aims to extend its VR/MR training technologies to other municipalities and companies to broaden the application of disaster prevention training.

Conclusion

For any organizations considering the implementation or development of VR/AR training solutions, Japan XR Center invites stakeholders to engage. Their team stands ready to explore the potential of XR technologies to enhance safety and operational skills in various settings.