Operator Training With Virtual Process, 1996 Engineering Conference Proceedings

Park Law

Potlatch Corporation

Michael Carlson-Arabi

Texas Controls, Inc.

With Virtual Process we take the operators as close as possible to the real process using virtual reality. Of course most of the expensive gadgets are not present and no special effects, headset or Hollywood style production is required. We take actual photographs of the equipment using a 35 mm camera and create a path through the process with as much information and detail desired to train the operating and maintenance personnel. The instructor will take the trainee on a tour of the plant and on the way stops and explains the process using actual 3D images of the equipment including valves, motors, transmitters, piping and walkways. Since the images are actually taken from the equipment, the trainee feels the effect of being present at the equipment location. Virtual Process is also used to locate equipment and provide instant information, and documentation about the process. This technology is used to train Operating and Maintenance personnel for the new Brown and Bleach washers at Potlatch Corporation in Lewiston, Idaho.