Cloud-based simulation in US

The full mission and classroom systems are needed to meet new US Coast National Maritime Center training requirements, and include multiple models from the Transas library with the latest functional capabilities of the Transas TechSim platform. The suite of simulators are due to be deployed in early 2015, with roll out of Cloud based simulation scheduled to go live soon after.

Transas says that its cloud based simulation is a new offering that will operate via the Internet, delivering simulation services to users on standard devices with normal browsers, avoiding the need for specific Transas software to be loaded on the client device. SUNY will be able to use this provide simulator access outside the classroom setting, on demand, to ease the training burden. It is envisioned that initial online content will encompass course preparation tasks, familiarisation, exercise and exam preparation, with students able to take additional simulation time if needed.

Transas’ delivery to SUNY includes a secure site within the Cloud for SUNY’s content, Instructor access for upload, download and preparation of content, student access control, and related support services. The scope of supply includes management tools needed for SUNY administrators to create and manage student records, cloud usage and cost statistics.

Transas says that Cloud simulation offers efficiency and flexibility, with instructors able to access the simulator from their personal devices at any time or location, and collaborate with others remotely. The system also offers potential for cutting IT costs, with less expenditure on infrastructure and support.

Steve Dear, TechSim product expert at Transas Americas said: “We are excited to be at the leading edge of this technology in maritime training, and at the response to this offering from our customers since the concept was first introduced to them at the Transas Simulation user conference in Maryland last summer. We believe that the SUNY Cloud Simulation project represents a significant step forward for delivery of simulation to our customers, opening up many new training opportunities inside and outside the confines of the classroom.”