Patent ID: 8851896

Claim:
A simulator for facilitating virtual welding activity, comprising: a logic processor based subsystem operable to execute coded instructions for generating an interactive welding environment in virtual reality space that emulates welding activity on a virtual welding coupon, wherein the interactive welding environment simulates a virtual weld puddle on the virtual welding coupon, having dynamic real time molten metal fluidity and heat dissipation characteristics, responsive to performing the virtual welding activity in real time; a foot pedal device in operative communication with the logic processor based subsystem and configured to affect at least one characteristic of the virtual weld puddle in real time, responsive to user control of the foot pedal device; and displaying means operatively connected to the logic processor based subsystem and configured to visually depict the interactive welding environment, including the virtual weld puddle on the virtual welding coupon, in real time.