Nationwide’s units feature a replica platform basket and control panel with VR headset and actuator motion base
Use of BIM, drones and VR forecast to become more widespread.
Digital technology is set to play a growing role in planning and executing work at height, new research has revealed.
In a survey by CM and the International Powered Access Federation (IPAF) of almost 500 construction professionals, more than two-thirds of respondents said they expected increased use of drones for surveys and high-level access over the next three years, while nearly four in 10 predict more applications of robotics and remote task operation.
Almost half anticipate a greater role for eLearning, virtual and augmented reality (VR and AR) for training.
Nationwide Platforms is set to become the first UK company to use VR for MEWP (mobile elevating work platform) courses, after investing in simulators to assist with training of operators of boom lifts and scissor lifts.
Peter Douglas, UK operations director of Nationwide Platforms, said: “We feel this technology bridges the gap between theory and practical training. The VR simulators will allow operators to work through complex scenarios replicating real-life training hazards without the risk.”
The CM/IPAF survey also found that nearly 50% of respondents predict greater BIM use for work at height programming and risk assessments.
IPAF recently supplied four of its virtual MEWP models to the National BIM Library to be used in modelling projects: mast climbing work platform; vertical lift; mobile telescopic boom; and mobile articulated boom.
IPAF CEO and managing director Tim Whiteman said: “By having MEWPs in the BIM library, we are making it as easy as possible for designers and contractors to know what to use and how to use it.”
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