BMT trials virtually operated maritime simulation

BMT’s Rembrandt has trialled its first virtually operated simulator-based ship navigation training programme. The company says this ‘digital advance’ will enable maritime operators and trainers to safely plan, train and prepare for marine navigation in a simulated environment, operated from a remote computer.

This trial was delivered in partnership with SeaChange Resources and its BridgeQuest training course.

BridgeQuest uses Rembrandt’s simulation technology and reconstruction play back to deliver leadership training using a single platform. The course coaches virtual participants through the ‘high-stress’ situation of a simulated maritime collision. This is said to help support the development of communication, collaboration and situational awareness skills.

“This digital advancement is a new watermark that best serves increasing global demands in ship navigation simulation,” says Dr Phil Thompson, director of simulation and training products at BMT. “Until now, simulations could only be experienced by those in the immediate vicinity of the computer hardware. This now enables greater levels of collaboration online and the creation of more sophisticated models unrestrained by existing ‘local’ hardware. Ultimately, this will provide a more realistic, safer and cost-efficient enhancement of live practical training for operators and trainers within de-risked and immersive learning environments.”

 Kim Parrott CEO of SeaChange Resources says: “This is a real game-changer for remote leadership training and team development. Historically, this sort of training and leadership coaching required face-to-face workshops. However, by creating an immersive environment which participants can participate in remotely, we’re able to effectively develop leadership and collaboration skills online.”