Innovative Iron Awards: CM Labs Mini Excavator VR Training & Genie’s VR Boom Lift Training Platform

The off-highway equipment industry has made significant strides in 2024, introducing machines that are smarter, greener and more efficient and powerful than ever before. Compact Equipment‘s 2024 Innovative Iron Awards celebrate these advancements, highlighting equipment that sets new standards in performance, sustainability and operator comfort. See all the winners here. Now, let’s celebrate…

CM Labs’ Mini Excavator Simulator Training Pack

CM Labs introduced the Intellia Mini Excavator Simulator Training Pack this year to provide an interactive, risk-free training environment for operators. Designed for mini or compact excavators, this simulation focuses on skill-building for both novice and experienced operators, enhancing jobsite safety and efficiency. From the press release:

“We’re seeing a growing preference for smaller equipment, as well as more and more mini excavators working near utility lines,” said Trin Ruiz, Senior Product Manager at CM Labs. “We wanted to develop a training solution that addresses these needs specifically, so that trainers and operators have the solution that best helps them get the job done.”

Key Features of the Mini Excavator Simulator

• Realistic Scenarios: Operators practice tasks like side loading, working near utility lines and handling tipping risks in lifelike settings.
• Interactive Learning: The system includes teachable moments that provide corrective guidance, ensuring operators build good habits.
• Performance Metrics: Detailed tracking of safety violations, productivity and precision allows trainers to assess operator readiness objectively.
• Beginner-Friendly: Operators start with controls familiarization and progress to complex tasks, enabling a seamless learning curve.
• Hardware Compatibility: The simulator works with CM Labs’ Edge Plus, Edge Max and Advantage platforms, ensuring flexibility.

This module addresses a growing demand for mini excavator operators, especially as the machines gain popularity for their versatility and precision. CM Labs’ simulator ensures operators are well-prepared, reducing risks and maximizing productivity on jobsites.

Genie’s Z-45 FE Boom Lift VR Training: Bridging Safety and Tech

Genie’s VR Training Platform for the Z-45 FE Boom Lift takes immersive learning to new heights. This VR solution combines realistic visuals, engaging scenarios and cutting-edge technology to prepare operators for real-world challenges. From the press release:

“In 2010 — the same year that a college student died in a scissor lift tip-over accident while filming a football practice in high winds — I helped develop and teach our first MEWP training course,” said Genie Training Director Scott Owyen. “The goal of the course was to help end users understand common hazards they could face when operating scissor lifts and boom lifts so they could learn how to avoid them and stay safe while working at height. Since then, we’ve continued to focus on offering training that advances safety in the industry. And, our new VR platform does just that.”

Highlights of Genie’s VR Training

• Immersive Scenarios:
  • Operations Training: Teaches operators the controls of the Z-45 FE boom lift.
  • Ghost Arena: Challenges users to precisely position the boom.
  • Safety Gauntlet: Tests hazard navigation skills in a virtual jobsite.
  • Steel Erector: Simulates boom positioning for welding tasks.
• Portable Hardware: Self-contained headsets don’t require internet access, enabling training in remote locations.
• Enhanced Safety: Operators can experience high-risk situations without real-world consequences, boosting hazard awareness.
• Integration with Existing Training: The VR platform supplements Genie’s classroom and hands-on training courses.

By incorporating real-world specs, CAD drawings and equipment performance characteristics, Genie’s VR training mirrors actual boom lift operation, making it a powerful addition to operator qualification programs.

The Importance of VR in Operator Training

Virtual reality is transforming training by providing immersive, risk-free environments. Traditional methods often require significant resources, time and supervision. VR eliminates these barriers by offering:

• Safety: Operators can experience mistakes and hazards without danger.
• Cost-Efficiency: Reduces wear and tear on physical equipment during training.
• Accessibility: Portable VR headsets enable training in various environments, from urban centers to remote jobsites.
• Standardization: Real-time metrics ensure consistent training across teams.

For industries facing skilled labor shortages, VR-based training accelerates proficiency, ensuring operators are job-ready faster than ever.

Why These Innovations Deserve Recognition

Both CM Labs and Genie have developed solutions that address critical gaps in operator training:

• CM Labs’ simulator caters to the growing mini excavator market, ensuring operators are prepared for the nuances of smaller, precision-focused equipment.
• Genie’s VR platform leverages immersive technology to enhance safety and efficiency in boom lift operations.

These innovations go beyond conventional training, merging technology with practicality to improve operator performance, safety and confidence.

A Future Shaped by Immersive Training

As the construction and equipment industries evolve, training must keep pace. Virtual reality is no longer just a futuristic concept — it’s a practical solution addressing real-world challenges. The award-winning tools from CM Labs and Genie showcase how VR is setting new standards in operator education, helping to build a safer, more efficient workforce. For companies aiming to stay competitive, integrating VR into training programs isn’t just an option — it’s becoming a necessity.

Keith Gribbins is publisher of Compact Equipment. He’s that guy doing VR training in that photo above.