PC-Based Similator Trains Mining Truckers


Simlog Inc. recently introduced an economically priced, PC-based off-highway truck simulator for the mining industry. The Montreal, Canada-based company’s Off-Highway Truck Personal Simulator incorporates Simlog’s “unique focus on instructional design to provide a comprehensive yet portable training tool that knows how to teach,” according to Paul Freedman, Simlog founder and president.

A total of six simulation modules of increasing difficulty are provided to bring trainees up to speed in a structured sequence. The first module (Controls Familiarization) introduces operator controls. The final module (Complete Haul Cycle) combines loading, driving and dumping. The product also includes a simulated wheel loader to teach truck spotting interaction.

Key performance indicators are measured for each simulation module, such as execution time, haul truck driving speeds and brake temperatures. Other indicators include retarder and hoist control lever operation, dump positioning time and accuracy, improper operation associated with gear changing, hoist control, etc. Keyboard function keys and mouse controls can be used during the simulation to change the display’s point of view.

Simulation results are automatically saved on the PC in the form of files in Web page format, and results also can be saved in a master database using Simlog’s Simulation Manager. With Simulation Manager, trainers can create individual accounts for simulator users with unique login names and passwords, and group them into classes, if desired.


Simlog's Off-Highway Truck Personal Simulator is available in a PC Controls version (opposite top), which includes
an inexpensive commercial USB steering wheel, gear shifter, and pedal set; for the retarder control, Simlog offers an
optional industrial USB lever and matching table-top mounting bracket. Replica Controls for the simulator (opposite
bottom) feature control devices from actual off-highway trucks. A scene from the advanced simulation module
(above) which requires the trainee to drive to a loading zone, where the truck is loaded by a wheel loader.
The simulator offers trainers a choice of two operator interfaces: PC Controls, consisting of off-the-shelf PC input devices, or Replica Controls, with operator control elements from actual off-highway trucks. Both offer USB connectivity.

The simulator is available in an English language version, with French and Spanish versions to be released, and will be jointly distributed by Simlog, VISTA Training, and Simlog’s other valueadded resellers worldwide. The cost of a commercial software license for the simulator package is $6,000.