ExxonMobil Research Qatar (EMRQ) has announced that ExxonMobil has awarded a global commercial licence for Immersive 3D Operator Training Simulator technology to co-developer EON Reality Inc.
The innovative technology incorporates ultra-realistic, multi-angle immersive virtual reality for training process operators and engineers in oil and gas production, processing and transportation facilities.
The technology enables effective training to take place in a safe and controlled environment.
The new technology also supports the development of simulators that combine dynamic process training and fully functional 3D models. These complex models include interactive 3D objects such as rotating valves, push-buttons and active gauges; natural gestures and voice commands; and enhanced 4D sensory conditions including tactile feedback, odors, vibration and wind simulation.
The dynamic process simulator uses actual plant operating conditions to create realistic training scenarios for critical procedure execution, upset condition training, and emergency response training.
Scenarios also can be created for workforce development, competency assurance, project commissioning support, new hire orientation, and more efficient turnaround/shutdown planning.
A full-scale simulator of an actual gas processing facility in Qatar has been operational since 2013, providing realistic training on more than 300 interactive control devices in six gas processing units.
“The Immersive 3D Operator Training Simulator provides a realistic 3D virtual environment that is a very close replica of an operating plant,” said Sara Ortwein, president of ExxonMobil Upstream Research Company. “These simulators are highly effective in training workers on how to prevent incidents, while teaching them to respond quickly and appropriately should any occur. This technology, developed in cooperation with EON Reality, is another example of how ExxonMobil continues to support research and safety, health and environmental protection across its global operations.”
“The Immersive 3D Operator Training Simulator will change how operators and plant crews train on existing facilities and even before a facility is operational,” said Mats W. Johansson, CEO of EON Reality.
“Working with ExxonMobil, we have created an immersive training tool to ensure that entire plant operation teams have practiced actual procedures together on a virtual facsimile of their plant. This truly is a flight simulator for plant operations.”
The Immersive 3D Operator Training Simulator technology is the latest demonstration of how scientists and researchers at EMRQ are committed to helping Qatar and other global ExxonMobil partners supply the world with much needed energy, while improving environmental and operational performance of production facilities.
EMRQ opened its facility at Qatar Science & Technology Park in 2009 to conduct research in areas of common interest to the State of Qatar and ExxonMobil. Scientists and researchers at EMRQ continue to advance projects in the areas of environmental management, water reuse, LNG safety and coastal geology.
