Construction Equipment Simulators Used For More Than Just Training

It should come as no surprise the construction equipment manufactures utilize virtual simulators when it comes to training operators, but what you may not be aware of is the extent to which companies like Volvo leverage simulators. Throughout the entire product development cycle, Volvo is using 3D simulation in places that had always relied on physical testing in the past, allowing them to lower production schedules and costs.

Volvo Construction Equipment Simulator

Dr. Reno Filla, a Product Development Specialist at Volvo Construction Equipment, recently spoke with Verdi Ogewell from the Verkstads Forum about the importance of simulation within Volvo for everything from prototyping machinery, to tasks that cannot be conducted in the real world. He discusses how they are able to develop a number of virtual concepts, allow the multiple concepts to compete against each other, and then choose the winner for real-world production. This virtual prototyping process allows Volvo to develop and test a higher degree of variation in their concepts, something that is far to expensive to do with the physical prototyping process.

Volvo Construction Equipment Simulator

From designing more efficient equipment, to training people to be safer operators, Volvo has made a significant commitment to their simulation systems. Just as equipment operators must learn to move the required amount of materials in their allotted time slots, equipment developers must design, test and produce equipment in cost-effective development cycles. Simulations are a proven method for meeting the high demands placed on everyone who works in the construction equipment industry.