The University of Santo Tomas (UST) in Chile is integrating a training simulator into its programme to assist students with mining haul truck operations.
University students will use a fourth-generation CYBERMINE unit from training simulator provider ThoroughTec Simulations to learn about surface and underground mining.
Go deeper with GlobalData
Imitating a Komatsu 960E haulage truck, the unit will be positioned on a motion platform communicating six degrees of freedom, while its functional instruments and controls will realistically replicate being in the cab.
UST national director of engineering Ignacio Contreras Espic said: "This simulator is helping our students easily identify and operate the haul truck’s controls.
"Within a matter of a few sessions, they’re becoming proficient operators, learning how to deal with emergency scenarios and operate a haul truck efficiently."
The CYBERMINE simulator can also be used to train current mine workers. UST will assist some of the mining companies in the region with their training programmes to improve the skill levels of their haul truck operators.
An instruction station will be available to help exercise control of all aspects of training and evaluation in real-time, which would be shown on two high-definition widescreen displays.
The unit is surrounded by a panoramic, projection system of a 3D virtual surface mine, and instructors can modify and programme the sessions to imitate dangerous emergency situations.
