Simulations
Thus far we have discussed the capabilities of games to
improve education. As an Instructional
Designer in industry, gaming is not particularly found as a method of
instructional delivery and activity.
However, simulations are a prime element that can aid a manufacturing
professional in the understanding of a concept or process. There are several
benefits of using simulations in manufacturing.
One is that a process can be slowed down or stopped for assessment,
where doing so on the shop floor could impact production, something that is
highly discouraged in real life. Another
is the safety factor. Watching a process
in 3d can allow an individual to gain an awareness of safety related issues
before an accident or injury could occur from learning on the actual machine or
tools.
The first of my resources is a company called
Convergence. This company provides media
based tools for learning in the manufacturing industry.
From the video example, you can see how 3d simulation is
used to show a safety product that is featured on a specific machine. As this video simulation is used to demonstrate
a product, it also offers safety training as part of presentation.
The next resource is Visual Components
Similar to Convergence, Visual Components offers simulation
solutions for manufacturing process. The
video includes a 3d fly around of an automated system. From a training perspective, this video could
be used in the classroom to introduce the process to the associates prior to
stepping foot on the floor. The use of
simulation can offer the pre-requisite knowledge before the actual on the job
training is started (OJT). Furthermore,
the simulation could be created to demonstrate a malfunction of the
system. This particular situation could
train maintenance personnel on hypothetical scenarios and better prepare
them for the situation verses waiting until it happens and wasting valuable
time, thus slowing production.
Looking ahead, my company, Tooling-U SME which offers
learning and development solutions to manufacturing companies, is entertaining
the idea of taking on simulation based work for custom content. In particular, I have been asked to start
preparing for a possible 3d simulation of a die cutting press for the
manufacturing of food production cartons for Malnove Incorporated. I recently have been conducting job analysis
for several roles within this company, including the die cutting pressman. As I have developed the job qualifications
for the new training program, I am now being tasked with developing the 3d simulation
of the die cutting process. Having a teaching background in 3d, I have been excited
to combine all of my skills to do such a job. With that, it is a perfect blend
of my manufacturing experience, 3d animation skills, and support from
instructional design that will provide me with the ability to create such a simulation.
Benefits
The die cutting process is very fast. The die cuts the board so fast that it is
hard to see with the naked eye. Creating
a simulation will allow the process to be slowed down in order for the new
associates to see how the components work to cut so accurately. This will also be a benefit because it will
not slow down production on the floor.
Furthermore, it is my intention to create an exploded version, where all
of the components will be singled out and shown so that new associates can
identify their function in the assembly.
The use of a simulation for training will offer a safe, clear, and efficient
way to learn a process in manufacturing
Hi Tom
ReplyDeleteThe hardest part for me this week is determining what is a simulation and what is not? I had a difficult time finding a “simulation” for a math class because of this. Do you have to be actively involved in the simulation or can one just watch is as in your example of the videos you show? The video that you provided was very informative regarding how to effectively design a safety system. The video conveyed a lot of important information in a short period of time. It sort of reminded me of the video they now show on airplanes regarding safety in the air! Years ago flight attendants would stand in front and show you where the exits are at and how to put oxygen on over your nose if necessary. Now they have these videos, and sometimes a simulation, to show you how to do these things. I think they are much more effective than simply watching the steward or stewardess standing in front of each section of the plane. Much like this video, more is learned from a simulation than from just listening to somebody talk about safety issues. The second video I watched of 3DSiimulate was really fascinating to see how technology has advanced! I think one of the greatest benefits is to see a malfunction in the system. This could potentially save someone a substantial amount of time!
Thanks for sharing
Kendra