CyberJab™
BIM GRID-XR
CyberJab™ BIM GRID-XR: mixed-reality training and simulation environment for critical infrastructure resilience
CyberJab™ BIM GRID-XR is a comprehensive mixed-reality environment developed to enhance the preparedness, coordination, and recovery capacities of critical infrastructure operators.
It provides a realistic, fully navigable digital twin of an operational energy substation and its connected communication systems, allowing engineers and first responders to experience and manage multi-hazard and cascading incidents within a safe yet authentic virtual environment.
The tool directly supports the aims of the RADICLE project (INFRA-01), contributing to improved crisis management, cross-sector coordination, and the development of harmonised resilience training curricula for operators and civil protection authorities.
BIM and 3D Model Foundation
At the heart of CyberJab™ GRID-XR lies a high-precision BIM and 3D digital model created in collaboration with Ukrainian DSO JSC “Prykarpattyaoblenergo” for the Iltsi 110/35/10 kV substation in western Ukraine.
This model was developed through detailed laser scanning of the entire facility, capturing not only the building structures but also the exact placement of transformers, switchgear, control cabinets, and auxiliary rooms.
The resulting point-cloud data were processed and simplified to generate a geometrically accurate Building Information Model (BIM) compatible with mixed-reality environments such as Unity or Unreal Engine (to be defined).
Unlike conventional architectural models, this BIM representation integrates both physical and operational information. Each component—breaker, relay, or control panel—may be linked to metadata describing its function, voltage class, and maintenance schedule.
This enables a context-aware simulation possible, where trainees can not only see the equipment but also understand how each element contributes to the overall system’s operation.Such depth of information makes the model suitable for both training and engineering validation tasks.
The model further supports progressive interaction layers. It can be visualised as a static 3D reference for orientation and equipment identification, or it can operate as a dynamic digital twin when coupled with historical telemetry from the company’s SCADA system or the automated metering (ASKOE) network. This flexibility allows the same digital infrastructure to serve both as a technical reference tool for design and as a learning environment for resilience and safety training.
Mixed-Reality Training Environment
Built upon the BIM foundation, GRID-XR transforms the static digital twin into a living, experiential simulation. Users equipped with VR or AR headsets can “walk” through the substation, inspect equipment, operate virtual switches, and observe the direct consequences of their actions. The environment can recreate routine operations—such as circuit isolation or maintenance—as well as extraordinary events like short circuits, loss of communication, or fire alarms triggered by environmental sensors.
The scenario engine allows instructors to script both cyber-physical and environmental incidents. For instance, a trainee might respond to a sudden power-flow anomaly or a communication failure between RTUs and the SCADA control centre. Each action taken by participants—whether resetting equipment, isolating a feeder, or coordinating with emergency services—is automatically recorded for later debriefing and performance analysis. This makes GRID-XR not only a training tool but also a validation environment for operational procedures and safety protocols.
GRID-XR also supports federation and replication.
The Iltsi substation model serves as a prototype; its structure can be adapted to other facilities, forming a network of interoperable digital twins across Europe.
This federated approach aligns with the BSC concept of location-proofing and ensures that the developed training modules remain transferable and scalable.
Innovation and Impact
CyberJab™ BIM GRID-XR introduces a human-centered, infrastructure-specific training approach that goes beyond traditional tabletop exercises.
It demonstrates how a precisely built BIM model, enriched with operational and safety context, can be transformed into a functional resilience simulator—allowing operators to learn, react, and collaborate inside a realistic digital replica of their own facilities.
The outcome is a practical tool that strengthens both the technical understanding of infrastructure systems and the organizational coordination essential during large-scale disruptions.
Innovation and Impact
CyberJab™ BIM GRID-XR introduces a human-centered, infrastructure-specific training approach that goes beyond traditional tabletop exercises.
It demonstrates how a precisely built BIM model, enriched with operational and safety context, can be transformed into a functional resilience simulator—allowing operators to learn, react, and collaborate inside a realistic digital replica of their own facilities.
The outcome is a practical tool that strengthens both the technical understanding of infrastructure systems and the organizational coordination essential during large-scale disruptions.