Crane Industry Services LLC (CIS) has taken delivery of three Vortex Simulators from CM Labs Simulations Inc., Montreal, Quebec.
The simulators are designed to help train operators of mobile cranes, tower crane, and excavators, as well as to conduct operator performance checks.
“The addition of simulators into our curriculum is a natural fit,” said Debbie Dickinson, CEO of CIS, which provides blended-learning training techniques, including online introductory training, instructor-led classroom training, hands-on instruction, and on-the-job training. “These simulators also meet our strategic objectives of recruiting and preparing workers for skilled trades in crane operation, construction, heavy industry, and manufacturing,” said Dickinson.
The simulators are housed at the Centered on Safety Training Center located on West Georgia Technical College’s Murphy campus. “We are pleased with the addition of crane and excavation equipment simulators, which provides added value for employers and students in our community,” said Laura Gammage, vice president of Economic Development for WGTC.
The simulators feature a three-screen, motion platform setup plus an instructor’s station. Powered by Vortex Simulation Software, the device simulates multi-body dynamics and captures real equipment behaviors. Just as in real life, the simulated tower crane mast and jib bend and torque according to the weight of the load, while the simulated excavator demonstrates bucket forces, trenching, loading, and soil behavior.
The mobile crane simulation is modeled on a 40-ton rough-terrain crane with its boom extended to 102 ft. Among the training module’s features is the ability for the operator to configure the LMI, set alarms, and change the number of parts of line. This simulator will be used as part of a research study conducted jointly by CIS, West Georgia Technical College, and CM Labs.
The research will evaluate inexperienced, moderately experienced, and very experienced operators to determine what operational skill level can be achieved by using crane simulators. The study will start in July and continue for 14 months and/or until 500 operator trainees have participated in the research.
Classes are forming now that incorporate the use of the simulators. For information about available training classes or how to participate in the study, contact (770)-783-9292 or info@CenteredOnSafety.com
Lift & Access is part of the Catalyst Communications Network publication family.
