Airline pilots spend many hours in simulators every year to hone their skills. Similar technology is used in the trucking industry but simulation training has traditionally been cost prohibitive for small and mid-size carriers.
Just as software developers now offer products and services through a subscription model with no up-front costs, simulation training has followed suit. Whereas cloud-based software can be used anywhere on any device with an Internet connection, driver simulators require the user to be physically present. The equipment can be mobilized, however.
L-3 Driver Training Solutions, based in Salt Lake City, Utah, is now offering full motion simulation training through a subscription package. Rather than installing simulators inside buildings, the subscription package involves renting a climate-controlled trailer with its latest simulators and professional instructor employed by L-3.
Drivers complete computerized courses first and then use the simulators to apply the topics and learning objectives.
The simulators have a high fidelity motion bay that replicates the experience of road vibration, sliding on wet surfaces and more. A new visual system gives drivers accurate depth perception and life-like graphics, says Matt Derby, marketing communications manager for L-3 Driver Training Solutions.
Fleets that use the mobile training option will typically sign up for one-week to have drivers complete several training courses. L-3 has about 18 different courses to choose from which include fuel management, maneuvering and distracted driving and more. The pricing is determined by the number of courses that fleets sign up for.
Typically, fleets sign up for two courses and train 40 drivers during a one-week period, he says. Each training session lasts four hours.
