Due to the importance of ensuring the security of smart grids during potential cases of unauthorized infiltrations, as well as considering the involvement of several actors within related infrastructures, the ELECTRON project recognizes the impact that can be offered through the proper preparation of participating stakeholders in the protection of such systems. The Democritus University of Thrace (DUTH), with a proven research and academic background, via its Department of Computer Science, contributes significantly to the realization of the particular objective, through its participation in the development and deployment of the Personnel Training and Certification Environment (PRINCE) framework.
The PRINCE framework consists of a successful combination of concepts related to distant learning, Learning Management Systems (LMS), and state-of-the-art digital technologies, specifically designed for the training of Electrical Power and Energy Systems (EPES) employees in key cybersecurity topics, through an online educational portal, which is powered by immersive AR and VR technologies.
The portal provides a collection of role-specific courses in key cybersecurity topics, namely Phishing, Denial of Service, Spoofing, and Unauthorized Activities, related to identification strategies, prevention measures, and effective handling approaches, with detailed informational content being presented in presentation slides, that are also enhanced with narration features. Moreover, apart from the theoretical training, the PRINCE platform includes immersive virtual exercises through AR/VR technologies to facilitate the practical knowledge of trainees. Upon completion of all the cybersecurity modules and exercises, the trainees can proceed by completing the final certification test.
DUTH, as one of the core participating members in the development of the PRINCE platform, provided significant contributions through the design and implementation of ARTutor, a novel educational tool utilizing the capabilities of AR technology. Specifically, the figures implemented within the presentation slides of each cybersecurity topic are utilized as trigger images for the display of different types of augmentations e.g., 3D objects, and videos, that provide supplementing educational content to the trainee.
The only requirement is for trainees to download the ARTutor application in their smartphones, available both for Android and iOS devices, scan the QR code provided in the first slide of the presentation to download the respective augmentations, and then point their cameras towards the signified trigger images to display the augmentations on their screens in real-time, while being able to fully interact with them with simple finger gestures.
A respective example of the practical application of the ARTutor within the context of the courses’ presentations can be seen in the following image, by augmenting a 3D object.
