A new spin-off of the University of Valencia will implement virtual reality tools for the education and training of machine operators. Learning will be done in a safe environment, using custom-developed real-time simulation systems. The University participates in the social capital of this company that emerged from its Institute of Robotics and Information and Communication Technologies (IRTIC).

Training simulators allow to instruct machine operators in a safe environment and at a reduced cost. The machines and vehicles used in mining environments or in public works, construction cranes, port cranes, warehouses and other types of vehicles for civil use require rigorous training that avoids not only the risks associated with their handling but also the high cost of using the machinery for operator training.

SIMODAR Training Solutions S. L., the new spin-off of the University of Valencia, aims to transfer virtual reality technologies for the training of machine operators, through real-time simulation systems based on virtual reality technologies transferred from the University to the spin-off. Thus, the company, that will be located in the Science Park of the academic institution, will develop and market simulators equipped with software owned by the University, which SIMODAR will exploit thanks to the signing of a Technology license agreement between the parties.

The system integrates both software components – visualisation algorithms, mathematical models of behaviour or sensorisation, learning and evaluation modules, among others – and hardware elements – movement platforms, cabins, visualisation systems, virtual reality glasses, seats and industrial controls–, adapted to give the user a greater sense of realism while using the simulator.

“Simulators allow exposure to situations of high risk or unrealisable in a real scenario, such as adverse weather conditions, breakdowns, dangerous operating environments, etc.”, explains Rafael Martínez Durá, researcher of the LSyM group, at IRTIC, and main promoter of SIMODAR. “This makes it possible to train operators in risk prevention, implement control measures to avoid possible human and material damage, and promote the quality and execution of work,” he concludes.

SIMODAR Training Solutions S. L. arises from the Simulation and Modeling Laboratory (LSyM, IRTIC), an advanced research group with more than two decades of experience in the development of training systems based on virtual reality, mathematical modelling, movement platforms and computer systems.

With this there are currently 18 active firms recognised as spin-offs of the University of Valencia, a type of company based on knowledge that the academic institution has been supporting and participating in social capital, in line with the knowledge transfer policies promoted by the Science, Technology and Innovation Law, and accentuated in its latest reform.