Liebherr Crane Simulator for the professional Training of Crane Drivers

As a special development for training purposes, the crane simulator has now become a unique element in the training of crane drivers for construction cranes with Liebherr. At the Training Centre at Liebherr-Werk Biberach GmbH, since August 2008 the crane simulator has already helped more than 150 future crane drivers to prepare for the tasks awaiting them in actual practice.

The crane simulator consists of a software-supported simulation based on the genuine crane functions of the 280 EC-H top-slewing crane. The driver’s position is an original unit from actual production, and has authentic control capabilities which give the driver the sensation of driving a real crane. The view from the cab is projected onto a large screen to give an impression as close to reality as can be achieved. 

In addition to this, the crane simulator provides the possibility of instructing drivers in the work area limitation system (ABB), and of freely defining areas prohibited for working on a virtual construction site. The prohibited areas can be optically  merged into the site, and then tested. If the crane switches off when it slews into the prohibited area, this means that the ABB has been correctly adjusted.

With the aid of the crane simulator, everyday operational situations can be simulated which the future crane driver must then deal with, in a similar way to a flight simulator in the training of pilots. The simulation supports the future crane driver in developing a feeling for the crane which is very close to actual practice, and gain experience in driving it. The key factor is that no injury to personnel or damage to buildings can be caused in the process. After the first steps have been successfully taken on the crane simulator, the experience gained can then be put into practice with training continuing on a real crane. This type of training and introduction to crane driving makes a major contribution to safety on the construction site later.