A Virtual Reality Simulator to Detect Acrophobia in Work-at-Height Situations

Abstract

We propose to demonstrate a novel immersive virtual reality simulator aimed at detecting whether potential workers at height are able to climb high up for dangerous operations. Our simulator consists in a dynamic platform that simulates the vibrations of an aerial device during elevation, a real ladder synchronized in position with a virtual one placed on top of a virtual electric pole, a harness that allows users safely climbing the ladder and a head-mounted display (HMD) for visualization. Our demonstration invites users to experience a high fidelity work-at-height situation triggering fear of heights.