MacGregor harnesses VR for training

The academy provides a risk-free environment where the users learn how to make real-time, complex manoeuvres safer and more efficient. It also showcases simulations of MacGregor products in action and demonstrates technical challenges.

“Virtual reality technology has improved dramatically in recent years,” said Geir Roland, director, Advanced Offshore Solutions, Global Lifecycle Support at MacGregor. “We can pass these advances on to our customers at our new facility and through portable training programmes.”

“The simulation/training software we use has been developed by our experts and is based on their expertise and experience in the field. We believe this is unique on the market,” he added.

Simulation services are particularly beneficial early in the design phase of a projects because they can explore and test a product’s capabilities before it is a reality.

They can also reduce the likelihood of causing injury to personnel or damage to equipment and offer the opportunity to explore restricted, dangerous areas that personnel would not normally be allowed to enter.

The VR showroom is divided into two zones comprising an authentic operating chair for offshore crane simulations and a zone where participants can walk around the simulated ship familiarising themselves with the safe operation of the equipment.

MacGregor expects to train between 70 and 100 people at its new academy every year.