Operator’s Opinion
How augmented and virtual reality will change our work in the field Do you think mixed reality has the potential to change the way you do your job? Any technology has the potential to make doing a job easier. It is always evolving from generation to generation bringing safer innovations and techniques. Augmented and virtual reality technologies bring obvious safety benefits and improvements, but it is not the sole contributor. There will always be a need for the human element in the field - the operator’s eyes and intuition being able to react at a moment’s notice to changing conditions on the work site. Doctors performing surgery with robots are able to gain more control or a better result, but this isn’t always possible with cranes; a dogman or rigger needs to be present to watch and step in if required.
Steven Roberts Universal Cranes
Steven Roberts is a second-generation crane operator who has been working in the crane and rigging industry for 11 years. Steve has operated Universal Cranes’ Grove GMK5220 for the past three of his eight years with the company. We caught up with Steve to get his thoughts on augmented and virtual reality in the crane industry, and the role of these technologies alongside operators into the future. Steve shared his view on the potential of mixed realities playing an important complementary role in the safety of those in the industry.
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LIFTING MATTERS
MARCH 2019
In what ways do you think the crane industry can or should adopt these technologies? In terms of job planning in situations where there are many variables at play, simulations will assist in saving time on mobilisation, planning lifts in advance and saving time on set up. As a training tool, there is definite value in allowing new and untrained employees to learn and practice in different scenarios before they’re allowed in the field, saving time on explaining and avoiding potential errors on site.
