Electric mining shovel simulator aids training and safety

Leading electric mining shovel manufacturer, Bucyrus International, is introducing its own PC-based simulator to aid training on its equipment.

LONDON - 

More and more specific equipment simulators are coming on the market and receiving very positive responses from the mine operators.

Aside from the specialist simulator manufacturers, many OEMs have gone into the development of their own simulators recently, although usually in conjunction with one of the simulator specialists. In this context US heavy mining equipment manufacturer, Bucyrus International, has introduced its new VAST^TM System (Value Added Simulation Training) specifically for its electric mining shovels.

Like all simulators, VAST is designed to reduce training costs, increase productivity, improve training effectiveness and reduce the extra maintenance and equipment damage sometimes caused by inexperienced operators. Bucyrus reports studies show that new operators who receive training with VAST prior to field training consistently maintain a higher level of productivity than those who do not receive simulator training. The system has a low cost to purchase and operate; all that is needed is the VAST software, an updated Windows based PC, a monitor, and two joysticks.

It gives an introduction to the basics of safe, productive shovel operation and also serves as refresher training for more seasoned operators. Simulator users are placed at the controls of a Bucyrus shovel in a virtual mine and interact with a simulated haul truck. The VAST system contains a total of eight different training modules including: Control Familiarisation, Shovel Positioning, Following Grade, Cab-side Dumping, Blind-side Dumping, Single-pass Digging, Cab-side Loading, and Blind-side Loading. Simulator results can be saved in a database and reviewed by the user and training instructor only.

The global leaders in specialist mining equipment simulator manufacture are probably Immersive Technologies from Australia and Thoroughtec from South Africa.

 John Chadwick is editor/proprietor of International Mining magazine - www.im-mining.com

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