Engineers help shape simulator technology
Our agricultural engineering staff and students have been helping to evaluate a top of the range agricultural tractor simulator which could revolutionise the way tractor driving is taught in the UK.
Tenstar Simulation, which already delivers innovate simulation based training tools for the construction, forestry and transportation industries, approached us to evaluate how the technology could be further developed for farm and construction plant operations.
Our feedback is proving invaluable to Tenstar UK Manager Simon Hogg, who is currently carrying out evaluations on the simulator following its recent release in the UK . Two key selling points are the way the technology delivers cost effective education and makes the workplace safer.
Agricultural Engineering Lecturer Mike Cullen, who has led CPD training sessions with colleagues on the simulator, has found it a valuable teaching resource as it not only performs a range of tractor operations but also logs reports on driving errors and diesel use and offers constructive advice.
Says Mike: “This is proving to be a very valuable tool in terms of monitoring a student’s progress. Although you can’t beat the real thing, the computer version is very authentic and allows you to try activities from loading a trailer to mowing fields and collecting bales.
“It will be of great benefit to students with no previous experience of driving tractors because it allows them to become familiar with the cab controls in a safe environment before progressing onto the real thing.
“It also frees up staff time because the students can progress at their own pace and you can download the report for discussion after the session.”
The simulator has already proved a great hit with select groups of students and also with professionals who were queuing to try it when we took it to the LAMMA agricultural machinery and services show.
Simon Hogg commented: “I have been delighted to work with Reaseheath’s agricultural engineering department on this new, emerging technology. The input and feedback from staff and students is always invaluable and allows Tenstar to shape this technology further for use in the farming industry.”
For more information on our agricultural engineering courses click here.
