SIMS & TRAINING
Epiroc ’ s ultra realistic options
At Epiroc , IM spoke to Malin Sjodin , Product Specialist - Learning Tools . She commented : “ I would say that the main use for our simulators is for new operators to learn how to handle our machines in a safe and correct way , but also to evaluate experienced operators and take them to their next level with more advanced scenarios focusing on productivity .”
She adds : “ Our simulators are built with OEM parts and with our real rig control system integrated with the simulation software in a way third party sim providers would never be able to achieve . We use the Algoryx motion engine for the most realistic machine behaviour updated in real time . I think our simulators are very realistic and advanced .”
Epiroc has developed simulators for numerous machines . In underground drilling it includes the Boomer S1 D , Boomer S2 , Boomer E2 , Boomer M20 ( under development ), Boltec M , Cabletec M and Simba E7 . Simulator platforms are available as desktop , classroom and full cabin types . For material handling it has sims for the Scooptram ST14 , Minetruck MT42 and Minetruck MT65 . Here , simulator platforms are available as classroom and full cabin with motion platform .
Finally for surface drilling there are options for the FlexiROC D65 , SmartROC D65 , FlexiROC T , SmartROC T40 and Pit Viper 271 . Here simulator platforms available as classroom and full cabin with motion platform .
“ Our simulators are produced in close cooperation with an external partner , both hardware and software . This partner also works with other industries than mining .”
training systems and processes to fend for themselves .
To address this longstanding issue , ThoroughTec developed the ‘ Workforce Excellence ’ Training Management System , or TMS , it said the world ’ s first dedicated , end-toend mining training management system . This cloud-based , enterprise-level software platform stands as the cornerstone of ThoroughTec ’ s training ecosystem , effectively digitising and centralising the creation , planning , control , reporting , and record-keeping for any and all mining training activities , regardless of medium , method , or content .
“ While optimised for integration with ThoroughTec ’ s CYBERMINE product range , WX TMS is actually technology , medium and process agnostic , allowing it to adapt seamlessly to virtually any training context or requirement . It serves as the training department ’ s central nervous system , connecting every aspect of training , from curriculum development and course planning to activity scheduling , resource allocation , operator record-keeping , and certification . The system accommodates the widest spectrum of training methods , from traditional classroom theory and e-learning systems to VR pre-trip testing , full-mission simulators , and even live , in-pit training and evaluation . Importantly , it offers near-real-time oversight to stakeholders across the organisational hierarchy .”
In the ever-evolving landscape of mechanised mining equipment , traditional machine controls are being replaced by digital fly-by-wire systems and the ubiquitous internet of things , has ushered in a proliferation of “ smart ” and semiautonomous equipment . These technological innovations are driven by a shared goal : to lighten operator workload and enhance machine efficiency . As a result , there is an increasing demand for a new breed of operators , individuals who can proficiently program machine automation using touchscreens and demonstrate mastery in traditional mining practices .
“ This shift can be seen in the number of new generation simulators being ordered . Over the last year we have seen a significant increase in demand for ‘ smart ’ equipment simulators - no fewer than nine discrete Sandvik ‘ i-series ’ machines , several Epiroc RCS5 drills and bolters as well as Minestar integrated Caterpillar machines .”
Beyond the industry ’ s best possible simulation of the such equipment , a key feature of ThoroughTec ’ s broader offering is an ability to develop customised virtual mine worlds and operating procedures for any class of equipment . “ Demand for such customisation in CYBERMINE simulators is at an all-time high , with clients wanting ‘ digital twins ’ of their operations , in which students can be exposed to and build experience in their ‘ actual ’ mine . At the end of the day , the more accurate and realistic the training experience , the more transferable those learnings are to the real world and the higher the operational return .”
The utilisation of e-learning has also witnessed remarkable growth in recent years . “ This shift involves the migration of assessments , training materials , and employee records to online platforms , resulting in a significant reduction in paper consumption and a streamlined process for creating , managing , and delivering training content . Moreover , e-learning systems have demonstrated their ability to enhance the learning experience by incorporating audio , 3D models , videos , and interactive
elements , ensuring that students remain interested and engaged . Furthermore , e-learning promotes consistency and uniformity in content delivery and testing procedures .”
Specifically , CYBERMINE ' s e-learning modules are tailored to the equipment and site requirements , covering a wide range of topics . These modules educate students on diverse subjects , spanning from the fundamentals of personal protective equipment ( PPE ) usage , site operating protocols , and mining principles to more intricate vehicle operation procedures .
Pre-trip or walk-around inspection training has also been brought into the digital age , as students can now learn to perform this safetycritical task virtually , using an interactive touch screen . The simulated equipment is completely and accurately modelled in 3D and placed into a virtual space where the student can ‘ move around ’ and inspect every detail and component of the machine . The taught inspection procedures are developed according to OEM recommendations and tailored where necessary to include site-specific requirements . Equipment wear , defects and potential faults are realistically portrayed and randomised during the tests so that the students learn to identify such issues and take appropriate action before operating the equipment .
“ It has been a hard lesson realising that not even the best technology in the world will deliver a positive effect if the people it serves lack the capacity to unlock it ’ s potential . The mining industry , hyper-focused as it is on its core business , suffers greatly from this challenge . In response we have created a ‘ Customer Success ’ department whose staff deploy world-wide to ensure that our customers are realising the benefits of their investment in CYBERMINE technology .”
These managed services range from periodic health-checks and client refresher training , to the full-time embedding of simulator facilitators . “ Beyond the integration of our technology into client training methods and culture , these ‘ bootson-the-ground ’ liaise with mine stakeholders to align training activities to address operational shortcomings and drive the continuous improvement of workforce proficiency .”
Sandvik seeing unprecedented demand
Sandvik Mining & Rock Solutions offers simulators through its Load and Haul division for loaders and trucks , with drilling simulation handled separately by the Surface Drilling and Underground Drilling divisions . Training for AutoMine operators also utilises simulators but is managed by Sandvik Automation Learning Solutions , a complete training package which covers all aspects of AutoMine remote and
14 International Mining | NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2023