Safe handling of the chainsaw, precise knowledge of the necessary work steps when felling trees, correct assessment of dangers in extreme weather conditions and correct behaviour in an emergency - everyone who works in the forest should know all of this. This requires comprehensive training.
To make this training more realistic, less risky and more efficient, the FWSafeXR training system has now been further developed. Commissioned by the Federal Forest Research Centre (BFW) on behalf of the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry (BMLUK), the AIT Austrian Institute of Technology, the Forestry Training Centers (FAST) Traunkirchen and Ossiach, Mindconsole, the Workers' Samaritan Federation and the Red Cross Upper Austria worked together on this project.
AIT innovation for the forest
In addition to XR and user-centered know-how, AIT also contributed technological expertise to the project - for example through 360° panoramic videos and the creation of 3D scans of cable winches. The focus is always on people: ‘Our goal is practical, safe and motivating learning - with state-of-the-art technology and realistic scenarios,’ emphasised Michael Oppermann from the AIT Center for Technology Experience.
"Our mission is to make forestry work safer! Digital solutions reach many people. Innovative technologies and training in extended reality are particularly appealing to young people," added Florian Hader, Head of FAST Traunkirchen.
FWSafeXR previously offered the modules work preparation, tree felling and helicopter instruction in emergencies. The system has now been expanded to include three further key training areas:
- Prepare winch
- Windthrow
- Emergency: Injured person
In addition, the existing helicopter familiarisation module has been extensively revised and expanded. New written documentation was also created to make learning even more sustainable. An accompanying qualitative survey revealed a very high level of satisfaction among the trainees - particularly in terms of increased motivation and measurable learning success.
Another milestone: the official opening of a dedicated XR demo zone at FAST Traunkirchen. In future, all forestry trainees will also be able to train in virtual reality.
FWsafeXR shows that Extended Reality (XR) can make a decisive contribution to increasing occupational safety in everyday forestry work. The combination of innovative XR technology and proven training expertise is a strong signal for the future of learning in the forestry sector.
