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SIMULATORS
Instructors
feel at home using the system. The software has been developed to make the simulator flexible. Numerous different findings can be included so that surveyors can visualise what they will face in a real situation. Trainees or instructors can adjust conditions, such as the degree of corrosion and weather and light conditions, to fit different purposes. Safety conflicts are also built into the program to encourage trainees to be more aware of potential hazards while inspecting. Defects are continually randomised to prevent trainees memorising them on later visits. In addition to becoming accustomed with frequently occurring deficiencies, a key objective is in learning how to carry out an inspection systematically. The simulation is not a passive environment. Besides being able to move around the ship, trainees are armed with a virtual camera to take photos for their reports and a virtual palmtop device, which can bring up on the spot information on key features in the view finder. They also
carry a virtual torch, which accurately reproduces the limitations of real flashlights. The only thing missing it seems is a virtual replacement for the inspector’s trusty hammer for testing the thickness of walls. Of course, the training programme consists of more than just simulator time. The sessions in the immersive 3D environment are supported by PC-based desk work and role-plays in which the trainee has to report his findings to the ship’s superintendent. The dialogues are modelled on the typical response an inspector might encounter on board, where cost conscious ship staff are sometimes unenthusiastic about committing to expensive repair jobs. ‘Over the past few years, the number of ships in operation has increased a lot. Recruiting skilled professionals to all parts of the industry has become a challenge. And though nothing can replace onboard training when it comes to gaining hands-on experience, the 3D simulator is the closest we can come on shore,’ Nortun concludes.
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can adjust local environmental conditions, such as the degree of corrosion and lighting
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cises to be repeated as necessary. By cutting waiting times for access to actual ships, this approach allows the trainees – and class society as a whole – to build up competence in less time. The survey simulator allows trainees to conduct inspections on virtual vessels, identify noncompliances and safety issues and optimise workflow processes in a controlled, interactive and guided environment. Using many thousands of images taken from existing vessels of different ages and quality, the 3D-enabled software replicates onboard conditions with remarkable fidelity – even down to the pitting in metal surfaces. As a result, trainees can become adept at pinpointing problems before they step on deck of a real vessel. Nortun notes that in recent years not only has technology changed, but so surveyors have too: ‘Younger surveyors have used computers as a more integrated part of their education. It is no surprise that this demographic is often referred to as the PlayStation generation.’ As such, he believes, they will quickly
mail@videotelmail.com | www.videotel.co.uk MITE August/September 2010
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