There’s no question that crane simulators have evolved significantly in recent years, offering realistic training environments that can reduce risk, cut costs, and enhance operator skills.
However, with a wide range of options on the market, making an informed decision requires careful consideration of your specific needs and goals.
Here are some key factors to consider when deciding which crane simulator to select for your organization.
The first step in selecting a crane simulator is to define what you hope to achieve, as the type of simulator you need will vary based on your training objectives. The more specific you are with your goals, the more clarity you will have on what to prioritize when evaluating your options.
Here are some points to consider:
Budget: Determine what you can afford to spend from the outset, while also carefully examining all available funding options, such as grants.
Size: Especially when purchasing multiple simulators, space constraints may affect which options would work best for your setup.
End use:
- Do you plan on using your crane simulator to evaluate the skills of new hires?
- How important is crane certification preparation to your training goals?
- How many different types of cranes and/or other equipment do you want to train operators on?
- Do you want to use it for promotional and recruitment purposes?
- Do you want to practice team training?
Portability:
- Will you be storing your simulator at a permanent, fixed location?
- Do you plan to bring your simulator to multiple sites?
The more specific your goals, the better equipped you’ll be to select the best crane simulator for your organization. If portability is a priority, for example, then you may want to consider a mobile training center or a smaller desktop setup, depending on your budget.
As you enquire, demo, and test different construction crane simulators on the market, here are some points to consider.
While we often use the term “crane simulator,” it’s important to clarify that crane simulation training is about much more than the hardware or “simulator” that operators interact with. In fact, the technology powering the simulator is what will have the highest impact on training outcomes.
The effectiveness of a simulator for crane training purposes depends heavily on its ability to replicate real-world conditions accurately. Before making a purchase, evaluate the following to see how accurate the crane simulation really is:
- Check the recreation of the crane’s cables. Are they rigid and stick-like, or do they move in the wind and reproduce the pendulum effect?
- Does the boom of the crane deflect slightly when lifting heavy loads?
- When turning the crane fast, does it feel like there is momentum when you speed up and slow down your rotation?
- Does the crane feel like it has some weight to it and a realistic response to input?
- Have an experienced operator test the simulator and ask them how it compares to the real thing.
- Ask about the research that went into developing the simulation platform.
If the simulation is not accurate, you risk “negative training,” where trainees learn dangerous habits that will require correction later in the field. By choosing an accurate simulation, you can rest assured that the skills operators develop will transfer to the real equipment.
A quality simulator for crane training should go beyond basic controls and expose trainees to the complexities of an actual worksite. This includes scenarios involving challenging tasks, distractions, emergency situations, and can even include certification preparation. Here are some questions to ask as you evaluate the depth of a simulation’s training scenarios:
- Are scenarios open-ended, allowing operators to solve a problem in more than one way?
- Is certification preparation included?
- Do simulated environments have pedestrians, traffic, and other factors that foster situational awareness?
- Can you change weather parameters and time of day?
- Is it possible for operators to experience machine faults like a flat tire in exercises?
By finding a solution that offers comprehensive training, you can make sure that your operators are adequately prepared for the realities of the job.
Think about both your current and future training needs when evaluating simulation. Is the crane simulator compatible with training packs for all the equipment types and scenarios you typically encounter? Some providers may have a more limited catalog of offerings, forcing you to purchase another simulator from another brand if you want to train for a different equipment type. A solution that offers flexibility will protect your investment and allow you to scale your training efforts.
One of the most valuable aspects of simulation-based training is the ability to track and document trainee progress. Ask about the reporting capabilities of the simulation system, the metrics it tracks, and its effectiveness in monitoring trainee progress over time. This will help you see the options you will have to gain the insights you will need when training operators.
Some crane simulators may be compatible with a range of instructor tools and supporting accessories. These can range from student monitoring and learning path planning capabilities to advanced view options. Ask about which compatible tools are available, as not all simulation training solutions will offer the same support tools.
Finally, consider the long-term viability of the simulation training solution. After all, a quality solution with high-level customer support will last you for many years to come.
Here are some questions to ask:
- What material are controls made of? Plastic controls can easily break, while steel lasts.
- How quick are customer response times?
- What plans are available for ongoing support, including software updates and maintenance?
A reliable provider will offer continued support to ensure that your crane training simulator remains a valuable tool for years to come.
Want to learn more about the ROI of crane simulation training? Check out our ebook: Measuring the ROI in Simulation-Based Training!
