Australian software to revolutionise driver training
Motum Simulation branches out into software development with custom training aidThe future of driver training in Australia is set to pivot into the simulation space, where Motum Simulation is developing its first software line and it aims to equip drivers with the skills to survive on the road.
Motum Simulation is a pioneer in the area of motion simulation and the impetus behind Motum World was a lack of affordable driver training software catering to Australian needs.
Developed in-house in Melbourne, the package is completely customisable and can be developed for a wide array of uses, from training learner drivers to bespoke industrial applications, with a focus on local conditions and road rules.
Within Motum World, assets such as vehicles, road surfaces and terrain can be used for any combination of inner-city, suburban, freeway, or country driving.
A range of metrics can be recorded for trainers, including speed, throttle control, steering precision, braking technique, proximity to other vehicles and road rule infringements.
Instructors can tailor training scenarios, including testing driver responsiveness, awareness, and defensive skills under a host of varying conditions, with the ability to mix in random or programmed AI vehicles and obstacles.
Early pilot programs over the past 18 months with different industries have attracted a positive response.
Qube Ports has been utilising the system to train stevedores across the country, which has seen six different port operations adapted into the virtual world.
Alkane Resources, an underground gold mine operator in NSW, has a simulation for its fleet of Epiroc MT65 trucks, while a yet-to-be-announced major emergency services operator has a similar system in place to train new recruits.
“We completed a worldwide search looking for software titles – we tried a number of them and none had the fidelity, adaptability, flexibility and scalability that could match the quality of our hardware offering,” said Motum Simulation managing director Steve Hoinville.
“So, we have embarked on creating our own software title that is tailored specifically for Australian driving conditions.
“We are incredibly proud of our initial release, while we are now poised to launch into the broader driver education space, including Pre-L, L to P and other learner programs, such as with the elderly or recovering drivers.
“A particular focus of the program is to make it as adaptable as possible for any driver education requirement.
“For instance, it can be used in heavy vehicles, Ubers, taxis, material handling and forklifts, port services, rail, and beyond – we have the functionality to expand into any training regime for any industry.
“With other existing driver training software titles, they tend to have small environments, very simple roads or car park examples, but with Motum World, if a client wanted to create the whole of the Melbourne CBD, we have that ability in-house.
“Furthermore, Motum World can be developed for any international application with ease.
“Our aim is to develop skills and behaviours in the virtual environment that transfer directly to the real world, which is a true breakthrough for the driver training and education industry.”
The software can be used independently of Motum’s simulators or incorporated into a simulator that mimics the cabin of the end driver, such as a passenger car or truck.
Additionally, users have the option of operating the software via a VR headset or on a screen.
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