Anyone learn on a simulator?

[greenmachine86]

I learned how to use machinery by just getting on the darn piece of equipment and figuring it out. I don't know about most of you out there, but my father and grandfather just let me get after it to learn. i came across this pretty neat article about simulators and how they are being used quite a bit today. it would have been nice to learn on one of these machines (would have saved a lot of money and save me from some butt whoopings) anybody out there learn on these simulators? im curious to know. here is that article too Virtual Construction | John Deere MachineFinder

 

[Bob Rooks]

I really believe that some people just have the "knack", others want to learn, and some have to be taught. There's a lot to be said for the apprenticeship programs.:thumbsup:

 

[wmonroe]

Out of all the equipment i have ran, almost all of it i learned by just getting on and running it. i'm lucky in that equipment comes easy to me, but i could see how a simulator could save a lot of wear and tear on equipment. I think it depends on the person, there are probably some excellent operators that would not do as well on the simulator. They're used to hearing and feeling the machine as part of operating.

 

[aczlan]

I could see using one as a "smoke test" in a job interview to ensure that you have actually run heavy equipment before (before turning you loose on a $$$$$$$$$$$$$$$ piece of equipment to see how you do.

Aaron Z

 

[Kernopelli]

I've never ran a simulator and have to say that looks cool. Kids, throw away the Xbox! I just have a hard time believing it actually gives you all the real time feel of sitting in the drivers seat in every application. There are SO many little nuances of operating a piece of machinery...that's different to every machine, that I think it would really be anything but a good introduction to operations. Maybe I'm wrong..... but I'd have to experience it to say if it's really like the real deal.

 

[jmolwitz]

It looks good to me :thumbsup: Sounds like there are quite a few lessons in there . How much $ I would tike to try it out

 

[excav8ter]

No simulator can teach you how to "feel" what is going on at the end of the blade or bucket.

 

[markct]

i can see it being a good starting point for someone never before on a machine, but there is very little realism in a setup like that. think of how when your running an excavator, do you only look out the front window? no you look in the side windows and mirrors before swinging or traveling, and you have to get that feel to slow up the travel when going over a teeter point, wont get that feeling mastered sitting in a chair with a tv on the wall and what a shock it would be to the unknowing cocky simulator trained operator the first day on a real machine!

 

[Thomas]

Never gave one try.
If one can't get the hands on time sure give the simulator try..least not for get about wind,rain,mud,uneven ground etc.etc.