Simulators and Virtual Training

INTERNATIONAL MINING – SEPTEMBER 2009

For underground ThoroughTec offers LHD’s mine trucks, drills, roof bolters and its latest, an underground locomotive simulator, the latest module in its CYBERMINE™ range. The simulator was requested by two existing ThoroughTec CYBERMINE clients, both of which placed orders for the new unit.

At the heart of the locomotive simulator is the simulated cab, a highly realistic replica of the actual equipment, with fully functional simulated instruments and controls. The replicated cab is mounted on a motion platform capable of imparting, in this case, three degrees of freedom, and is surrounded by a wide field of view, high-resolution projection display system with surround sound audio. Control of all aspects of training and evaluation is exercised in real time from a feature rich instructor station. The entire system is housed in a well appointed, self-contained ISO standard container, which also facilitates ease of transport.

“The instructor can introduce fault conditions both before and during exercise execution and is able to review and replay the student’s exercises.”

The locomotive simulator implements many major functions. It operates in a 3D virtual world, representing an underground mine, and can be started, driven forward, reversed and stopped. The engine, power train, drive train and all associated components are simulated to a level of fidelity sufficient to provide a realistic training experience. The student is scored against procedural and safety checks. The instructor is able to prepare and tailor exercises for the student to execute and can monitor and evaluate the student while the simulation is running. The instructor can introduce fault conditions both before and during exercise execution and is able to review and replay the student’s exercises.

The virtual world includes two chutes, two tips, a workshop, a decline, a number of bends, a number of intersections marked and unmarked and a number of tunnels. There are computer-controlled guard performing actions for the loco operator, some computer controlled pedestrians and other computer controlled locos in the world.

Operators are logged onto the CYBERMINE simulator using a unique password. As the operator controls the equipment, all aspects of operation and electronically monitored and digitally presented, including adherence to operating and safety procedures and student’s economic performance. Exercise results are stored in a comprehensive database for viewing and printing by the instructor.

The operation of sub-systems such as engines, braking systems and hydraulics is mathematically modelled to provide accurate, realistic feedback to the student. Other simulated people, equipment and vehicles may be programmed to interoperate with the student to test and enhance skills levels.