Ports of Auckland will be the first in the world to try out new simulation-based operator training for its remote desk-controlled ship-to-shore cranes.
Port crane simulation-based training provider CM Labs Simulations worked with Chinese manufacturing company ZPMC to develop the new machines.
The technology will expose trainees to crane operations and the control room environment just like real operations.
This includes the simulation of all crane functions, camera displays, automated safety functions, as well as the terminal’s container management system.
ZPMC smart solutions group vice general manager Zhao Bin says there is “enormous growth” in ship-to-shore (STS) operations as well as training.
“Remote crane operations are gaining popularity in container terminals as an alternative that improves safety, operating ergonomics, and operator productivity.
“ZPMC is the industrial leader in crane remote operation control, with a professional team and many years of experience.
“CM Labs is highly qualified in terms of being able to offer the experience and expertise required to deliver this training simulator to one of ZPMC’s customers,” Bin says.
The first remote desk-controlled crane training simulator will be installed at Ports of Auckland later in 2018.
Simulators track information such as moves per hour and collisions.
Trainers can launch exercises on both manual and semi-automated controls, and inject faults such as snags, corner cast failures, inclement weather or disabled cameras. The simulator will give ZPMC clients the opportunity to prepare for operations well ahead of crane handover.
CM Labs chief commercial officer Arnold Free says the company is “very excited” to be working with ZPMC.
“By bringing together CM Labs, the leader in crane simulation-based training and ZPMC, the market leader in STS cranes, we will deliver training technology that will allow ZPMC’s clients to produce more efficient and safer operators.”
CM Labs develops both off-the-shelf and made-to-order operator training simulator solutions that replicate the feel and behaviour of port equipment in their unique environment.
ZPMC is the world’s largest manufacturer of cranes and large steel structures, with a high global market share for the international STS port crane market.
