Russian Scientists Create Universal Simulator for Heavy Machinery Operators
A new digital training training platform from Perm Polytechnic University promises to double the speed of workforce in industries from mining to construction, while reducing risks and costs.
Researchers at Perm Polytechnic University have developed Russia’s first universal digital platform for training operators of complex industrial equipment such as cranes, excavators, and loaders. The innovation is designed to accelerate training while eliminating risks to human health during practice and avoiding downtime of expensive machinery.
The technology can support both advanced immersive simulators with 3D graphics and budget-friendly solutions for testing basic knowledge, making it accessible for companies of any size. Its versatility enables use across industries ranging from drilling rigs and chemical reactors to mining combines, underscoring its importance not only for Russia but also for the global industrial sector.
According to the university’s press office, the system is a flexible software suite adaptable to tasks from simple quizzes to fully developed VR- and AR-based simulators. Unlike existing alternatives, the platform acts as a universal “constructor.” Instructors can design training scenarios for specific operations, from assembling and disassembling machine components to startup and emergency procedures.
The development is especially relevant given that 60 to 80 percent of workplace accidents are caused by human error. Traditional training on real equipment is both dangerous and costly, since it often requires halting production. The new simulator shifts preparation into a safe virtual environment, addressing both safety and economic concerns.
