Operators of construction machinery are responsible to get the job done easily, efficiently and cost-effectively. For Volvo Construction Equipment’s excavators, wheel loaders and articulated haulers, Oryx Simulations provide advanced training simulators that help train new operators to use the machine in a matter of hours. Construction Business News ME investigates
Oryx Simulation’s advanced training simulators for Volvo Construction Equipment (CE) uses a combination of theoretical and regular training to help operators reach levels of expertise without stepping into the field. The simulator-based training, offered for Volvo CE’s machinery, familiarises new operators with the controls and functions of the relevant machine, with specific focus on operating methods and skills.
Per Bergman, key account manager at Oryx Simulations, says that training student operators to use the equipment via simulators is more effective. “Training a student for one hour in the simulator is enough to familiarise him with the machine. He can operate a machine after just one hour.
Bergman adds that around 10 hours training at the simulator, you could move the operator from a simulator to a construction site. “The operator can then operate the machine safely in 10 hours.
“While 40 hours in a simulator, would give you a skilled operator.”
By having well trained operators, the company can assure maximised machine performance and on-the-job productivity.
The equipment offers step-by-step training with evaluation and follow up that looks realistic and authentic and could easily be compared to traditional training. The combination of realistic sounds and movements also helps train the student operator in those situations that need all senses.
The experience is substantial, with training in high-risk scenarios without actually risking the safety of the student operator or damaging the machine.
The whole process swears to be easy, efficient and cost effective. The cost for running the simulator is in fact just a fraction of the operating cost of using a real machine in training.
The fuel efficient technology prides itself on leaving behind a comparatively small footprint.
It features a multitude of exercises, handcrafted to focus on operator skill or ability. In fact, the training instructor can either use one of the predefined Volvo Training Packages or create tailor-made exercise packs for different student groups.
As the training helps the new operator repeat his practice (and movement) over and over, a long-term muscle memory is created for the task. Eventually, the operator will be able to perform without a conscious effort, similar to driving car or cycling. Once he reaches this kind of confidence he is able to concentrate on the bigger picture. By helping operators reach this level of confidence, their chances of performing well and understanding a site well, dramatically increases.
However, this technology also needs competent instructors to help make the training effective and enjoyable. Most instructors enable operators to follow a defined exercise path. After attaining the required skill level, they could then continue training on new techniques.
Bergman compares using the simulator with traditional training and admits it is much simpler for the instructor as well. “If you are training a student operator in an excavator, you will be standing next to them with an open door yelling press this or that. In this environment you can teach a student even if that student has no experience. You could also leave your student to practice with the assurance you have left them in no danger.”