CM Labs, which develops simulators to train crane and other heavy equipment operators, has introduced a new training pack aimed at giving new dozer operators an immersive simulation.
The new Dozer Simulator Training Pack addresses common beginner challenges like setting blade angle correctly and learning how to maintain material in front of the blade, CM Labs says. However, the simulator also includes advanced training exercises such as excavating a drainage inlet and transversal ditch, and trailer loading/unloading.
But the key feature to this new dozer sim, the company says, is the way it allows trainees to “experience the unique feel of pushing soil and aggregate material.”
The training pack provides this type of immersive feedback by simulating the interaction between all of the simulator’s virtual elements—the soil, blade, transmission and engine. These represent all of the changing variables that you would expect to impact operation of the machine in the real world.
CM Labs says that when the six-way blade touches the soil in this new sim, the transmission and engine on the simulated dozer engage and react in a way that closely mimics the real thing. The tracks on the simulated dozer can even slip based on operator behavior, the company says, allowing trainees to learn precision techniques and efficiency.
