The last two days were exciting for the MED1stMR consortium. We gathered in Zurich and after one day of preparation, we presented the last 18 months of internal consortium work to our EU project officer and two expert advisors. In a few hours we showed all the teamwork and efforts that went into the project over the last 18 months.
We presented the project according to our 4 main objectives, by showing the contributions of each partner to the common goals:
Objective 1: Mixed Reality Solution
Our technology partners presented the current status of the system architecture and integration of the middleware, the mixed reality tool, the scenario editing options to deliver differentiation and variation before and during training as well as the integration of the simulation manikin for the haptic experience as
well as the MR scenario training and medical training combined with real-time full-body tracking, trainer monitoring and debriefing options combined with a high-fidelity, VR-enabled patient simulation manikin for more detailed haptic experience and higher immersion and learning effects.
Objective 2: Training Framework
Based on an agile methodology, end-users are involved in the project from the beginning considering their needs and requirements towards functionality and scenarios as well as their daily context and the analysis of current mass casualty real-life training simulation. This input is and will be continuously transferred to user stories ready for the technology partners to implement. Enhanced with the implementation of various virtual assets such as avatars and their wounds, cars, crashed environments and medical tools, this objective supports the development of a training framework with guidelines for mixed reality scenario based mass casuality training for medical first responders. For this framework, a scientific model was developed (also see: scientific model) and will be validated throughout the project with pre-studies already executed. Team performance during training is also an important factor that will be considered in the project.
Objective 3: Smart Scenario Control
Training and the mixed reality solution are one part of the project. But we also want to consider the stress state of the trainees during the training. For this, we presented the status of the biosignals measurement device (wearable) and the plans for the integration and measurement and interpretation of data. Combined with a dashboard for the trainer to monitor the performance, the integration in the mixed reality training solution will bring medical first responder training to another level.
Objective 4: Europe-Wide Positioning
Communication, Dissemination and Exploitation are important factors for a successful project. Without a generated impact, the hard work of the consortium will not be seen from external. Therefore, we will keep on presenting results and raising awareness on the topic.
End User Point of View
After the presentation of each project objective and the current progress, 2 of our end-user partners presented their view on the current state. They talked about their continuous involvement in the project (e.g. requirements workshops on site, real-life simulation training observation etc.) and their future expectations and contributions. MED1stMR is an end-user-centred project from the beginning and we have been able to show these efforts during the midterm review. Enthusiasm and involvement of all partners are important drivers for the success of our project.
Technical Demonstration
After these theoretical impressions, we moved on to the demo of the mixed reality training tool. End-users showed how training is planned to work and the reviewers on site had the possibility to try out the system. It was a fruitful discussion on the advantages and challenges virtual training will bring to the mass casualty preparedness of European first responders.
On the review day, we as a consortium have been able to show the efforts we invested, the progress we made and the first tangible results on all levels. Combining multidisciplinary needs in one project is always challenging, but as a consortium, we have reached a stage where we do see each other’s needs and partners work for the same goals. We are proud to be in this project and want to create an impact. Now that we received positive feedback and were able to align and discuss the challenges of the project, the time to deliver all the planned and prepared content is upcoming. The second half of the project will be filled with data gathering, analysing, adapting, and close agile development between end users and technology. There will be many options (webinars, field trials, events, the final conference etc.) to see a presentation of the project results. So, keep tuned to find out more about MED1stMR – the mixed reality training solution for European medical first responders.
