Note: Some of the information files linked to under the descriptions of the each project are in Adobe Acrobat format. A free .pdf reader is available from Adobe. Development and Application of Virtual Reality Technologies for the Minerals Industry Sponsor: Virginia Department of Mines, Minerals and Energy Original Proposal Start Date: August 16, 2000 Completion Date: August 15, 2002. Abstract: The Virginia Center for Coal and Energy research (VCCER) has recently developed a virtual reality technology program for the minerals industry. This effort includes virtual reality-based training systems, health and safety applications, advanced simulation technology and environmental impact assessment. In addition, current funding under the State Energy Program, has allowed the establishment of a Mining Virtual Reality Facility. The facility is now equipped with desktop virtual reality technology and it is designed to perform showcase demonstrations, workshops and immersive training. The objective of this proposal is to expand the mission, capabilities and training features of the Mining Virtual Reality Facility, in order to develop, apply and disseminate these innovative technologies to the Virginia minerals industry. The development of "real-world" scenarios that can be applied to optimize operations, develop task-related training programs, create environmental visualization processes and undertake health and safety training and post-accident forensic analyses, will greatly improve the performance and viability of the Virginia minerals industry. Furthermore, the virtual reality methodologies developed under this proposed research for the Virginia minerals industry, can also be distributed to the national mining industry, to improve environmental performance, labor and capital efficiency, and health and safety. As a result, the "Virginia" Mining Virtual Reality Facility can form the foundation for developing a "National" facility in the near future, supported by state and federal governments, the minerals industry, equipment manufacturers, and research and academic institutions. Quarterly Reports as submitted to the Virginia Department of Mines, Minerals and Energy: 1st Quarter, September - December, 2000 ** Due to funding not recieved until end of quarter, no report filed ** 2nd Quarter, January - March, 2001 3rd Quarter, April - June, 2001 4th Quarter, July - September, 2001

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