This article is 18 years old. Images might not display.
The company, formally known as Fifth Dimension Technologies, is a 45-employee outfit with one US office in California and one South Africa office in Pretoria.
“At 5DT we believe that virtual reality is not intended to replace reality-based training; instead, it is a powerful training medium to prepare the trainee for reality-based training,” the company said.
To do that, 5DT provides assistance to both surface and underground workers at varying levels of expertise. Its haul truck, dozer, wheel loader and shovel training simulators are just a few surface-oriented offerings.
In the underground world, the company has equipment operators covered. The CMTS, or continuous miner training simulator, allows the trainee to become accustomed to the unit’s remote functions in a surface environment, then incorporates other elements of operation, such as sumping and cutting splits.
Also offered is the longwall training simulator, or LWTS. Booms, cutting drums and cowels are all part of the machine functionality and techniques that an individual can learn using the VR unit. In both cases, a head-mounted display and trainee controls make up the learning system.
The RBTS, or roof bolter training simulator, also gives the next-generation feel to training, the company said.
“Instant feedback on individual bolts as well as full results of an entire session are created to measure the student’s progress,” it said.
In addition to the simulator systems, 5DT also provides the industry with various other options for keeping mines productive and in the know. Its computer-based training teaches concepts and increases knowledge for a trainee, which the company said is ideal when paired with simulator training.
Mining simulators are also a part of the company’s line. In addition to allowing mines to see the overall activity of the mine in a comprehensive manner, it also provides a visual example of the mining process for trainees.
To learn more about the underground simulators, instructor perspective technology and other available software, check out the August edition of American Longwall Magazine.
