SIMULATORS TO SUPPORT TRAINING A simulator is a cost-effective and safe environment for training new operators, forest machine professionals and service mechanics. In Finland, simulators have been used to support training for more than two decades. Recently, PONSSE simulators have been adopted by several education institutions in Hungary. Ponsse is responding to the need for the development of forest industry training by modernising its simulator product range. As its name suggests, the new PONSSE Full Simulator is a full-range simulator system. Its realistic forest environment and detailed graphics create a perfect platform for professional training. “The Full Simulator forms a training environment around the user that is as close to a real forest machine environment as possible. State-of-the-art digital technology makes simulator training easy and enjoyable,” promises Jussi Jurvanen, Ponsse’s simulator expert. In addition to the new PONSSE Full Simulator, the product range consists of the PONSSE Basic and PONSSE Compact simulators. All three offer a modern learning environment for harvester, forwarder and PONSSE Opti information system training (except Basic, which does not have the Opti system). “The genuine PONSSE Opti information system for harvesters and forwarders, combined with excellent ergonomics for the operator, makes simulator training not only motivating, but also fun,” Jurvanen says. The simulator’s harvester section allows actual harvesting tasks to be practised, different thematic exercises to be performed as well as getting familiar with the operation of a machine’s control and measuring system. In the forwarder section, it is possible to practise how
to operate and load a forwarder and control a crane in realistic conditions. The PONSSE Full and PONSSE Compact simulators are also ideal for training maintenance employees. “Sim Trainer, the simulator’s training management system, has levels for advancement as new skills are acquired. Right from the start, the safe, efficient and productive operation of forest machines is taught,” Jurvanen says. SAFE AND COST-EFFECTIVE TRAINING
In Finland, simulators have an established status as a core part of forest industry training. They can be used to train new students in the basics of safe and cost-effective machine operation and best working techniques. As their skills increase, more elements can be introduced to the training, such as the effect of the machine’s adjustments on working efficiency and work ergonomics. These also help operators cope better at work. “The new features of our simulators, such as calibration and adjustment of measuring devices, make learning faster and easier. When a process can first be practised in a simulator, the skills can be put in practice more quickly, and it’s easier to understand how results should be assessed, and what adjustments may need to be made, for example,” says Pekka Parta, a teacher in the South Savo Vocational College in Mikkeli.
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