Interactive Web Based Training System At Tinker Afb: Aircraft Part Maintenance And Assembly Process

Three-dimensional visualization is an essential element in any web-based applications for engineering education and technical training. As concepts of virtual reality become possible, the use of three-dimensional elements can simplify the learning process. Effective information delivery is done by integrating a variety of multimedia components such as three-dimensional animations and simulations with the standard text and graphics. These electronic media are combined to match nicely with many of the aspects of technical training. Opportunity for the user to explore and learn effectively through an investigative process is provided using these technologies. This paper describes the incorporation of three-dimensional visualization as a main component with other media elements in the interactive web-based training project for Tinker Air Force Base (AFB) in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. Three-dimensional visualization is implemented using the latest web-based, three-dimensional graphics supportive capability technology, namely Shockwave 3D technology. The training system, called the Constant Speed Drive (CSD) System, was developed for Tinker AFB to provide a flexible and effective training system that is accessible as a resourceful, stimulating, attractive, and challenging training method to serve a large number of personnel simultaneously. It should be noted that CSD is the name given by Tinker AFB personnel to a demonstration part used in this system. However, the name of this part used in the official Technical Order is Constant Speed Mechanical Drive Mechanism. The fundamental objective of this environment is to help engineers, technicians, and professionals at Tinker AFB better understand the required operations through an Internet-based learning environment. These various technologies such as text, graphics, and three-dimensional visualization (e.g. animation and simulation), are integrated to develop and efficiently deliver content-rich learning material.