Kongsberg GlobalSim Completes Installation of World’s Largest Crane Simulator

In November of 2012, Kongsberg Globalsim completed its multi-year project to build and install the world’s largest crane training simulator for the National Ports Agency of Morocco. The simulator uses a 10-meter dome and 12 projectors to create an immersive virtual training environment in which ANP’s crane operators can safely and effectively learn to operate new equipment. As the simulator is integrated into its training regimen, ANP expects to dramatically reduce both the training time required to produce competent operators and the number of accidents caused by poor handling of heavy port equipment.

The simulator boasts one of the most realistic virtual training arenas in the world. Much of that realism comes from detailed customizations produced by Kongsberg Globalsim to replicate the port of Casablanca. The simulated cranes match the cranes used in the port. The simulation’s layout matches the layout of the real port. Even the city’s skyline, complete with the pointed spires of mosques, is recreated on the horizon. “Building the arena for ANP was an interesting project,” says John Olsen, one of the lead engineers from Kongsberg Globalsim. “The port is very close to the Hassan II mosque. Because of this we inserted a full 3D model of the mosque into the scene outside the normal port working area, and it is visible from the cab for each of the simulators. In addition to that, our arenas have ground markings and rail placement to match the actual crane models and give the simulator a realistic area in which to work.”

One major advantage of using simulation for heavy equipment training is the diversity of training operations available on a simulator. The ANP system is one of the most diverse training simulators in the world, being able to simulate 6 different crane models. This means that it can be used in the morning to train Ship-to-Shore crane operators and then in the afternoon can be used to train straddle carrier operators.

No matter which piece of equipment is being simulated, trainees will benefit from the immersive training environment as they learn new operating skills. The simulator provides the real look and feel of using the simulated equipment, as it features authentic controls, a full cab, and an inverted 6 degree-of-freedom motion base mounted above the cab. “What is possible with today’s technology is absolutely amazing,” says Clyde Stauffer, Kongsberg Globalsim’s vice president of marketing and sales. “The level of realism these simulators achieve creates a phenomenal training environment without the risks of using real equipment.”

[mappress]

Kongsberg, July 31, 2013