The use of modern simulation tools for training maintenance machine operators and perfecting their skills is becoming increasingly popular. It is reason enough for Plasser & Theurer to offer even more in this area with the new UnimatSimulator. Training for operating eight different universal tamping machines is currently available on the simulator, meaning that it can be highly customized to each user and machine configuration.
More and more companies operating track maintenance machines are recognizing the benefits of simulator training: faster training, more efficient perfection training, and lower training costs. The new UnimatSimulator is the first system on which training with eight different universal tamping machines is possible. It is housed in two containers that can be transported to the location of any customer around the world. Operators of Unimat fleets can thus train or further improve the qualification status of their teams working on different machine types in short periods of time.
The new UnimatSimulator has an integrated track generator with add-ons to better cater to the machine operator’s existing knowledge and to be able to carry out specific training tasks tailored to particular track conditions. It is possible to choose between fixed or movable turnout frogs, different turnout radii, rail profiles, sleeper types, rail fastenings, obstacles, and other elements – the basis for very specific and highly customized tasks.
With the UnimatSimulator, particular emphasis was placed on faithfully reproducing the user interface. Displays, controls, and work processes are exactly the same as on the real machine. Mistakes are allowed to happen here – without consequences for safety or infrastructure.
In addition to mobile tamping simulators for plain-line and turnout tamping, we also offer simulator systems for ballast profiling machines, ballast cleaning machines, and catenary installation and maintenance machines. For more information on the UnimatSimulator and related training and course programmes, please send an email to: training@plassertheurer.com
The ScreenLiner simulator for ballast cleaning machines from Plasser & Theurer was developed as another mobile and cost-effective option. It can be used via VR glasses or a desktop and enables all work processes to be trained realistically. In order to further increase safety on construction sites, the topic of occupational safety was specifically focused on.
The mobile tamping simulator 09-3D, the first 3D simulator for plain-line track tamping, was launched in 2011. Work preparation, running, and operating the tamping units can be trained in realistic cabs. The operating scenarios, such as laying new track, maintenance, sleeper types, or various obstacles, can be freely configured. Experienced trainers provide valuable feedback. The Unimat 3D mobile tamping simulator has been available specifically for turnout tamping since 2015.
The development of the BallastMaster simulator was inspired by our ballast management system with all the technologies for modern ballast profiling. It works almost like a computer game. A VR headset, a controller, and the simulation software: that is all you need to practise working and driving with Plasser & Theurer ballast regulating machines.
The driving control station simulator is available for training with track motor vehicles such as the Plasser MultiCrafter and other track construction and maintenance machines. Various operating modes with various train protection systems can be practised. The ÖBB Infrastruktur and DB Netz AG rail networks are integrated, as are the entrances to the Italian and Hungarian networks.