Simulation: a big theme for 2017

This year’s CONEXPO-CON/AGG promises a number of new developments in the field of simulation as advances in software and virtual reality enable a wider and wider range of applications.

Machine manufacturers have used simulation for years, first in the R&D process and then for training. Now educational institutions, as well as specialist training providers, are able to afford the technology. Employers can also make use of simulation to trial would-be employees and to assemble teams with the right capabilities for particular projects.

5085 Tenstar Simulation will be revealing its new Multi Machine Environment (MME) which creates the experience of several machines working in one environment. Visitors to Tenstar’s booth will be able to see a tracked 360 excavator, articulated dump truck and dozer working virtually together.

The show also sees the launch of the Tenstar Scoring System, a reporting tool that provides feedback on a student’s progress and charts their improvements over a given period of time.

8580 Immersive Technologies will be showcasing its WorksiteVR Simulator, a virtual reality tool designed for heavy equipment training. Immersive Technologies has been working with 2300 Komatsu on the development of the tool, with WorksiteVR used on its PC200 and PC300 excavators and more models to come. A recent agreement between Komatsu and Immersive Technologies will see Komatsu-branded WorksiteVR Simulators distributed via Komatsu’s global distribution network.

8579 CM Labs Simulations has developed a new desktop simulator aimed to provide professional-grade simulation training to entire classrooms. It could also be used alone or as a novice-level tool, with students progressing to Vortex Advanced as their skills improve, says CM Labs.

One of the first organisations to make use of Vortex Trainer – as well as Vortex Advanced - will be the Operating Engineers Training Institute of Ontario (OETIO) which is modernising its training classroom. The investment will dramatically reduce the amount of on-the-job training time needed by students and is expected to provide additional training time for up to 120 apprentices in the first three years only.