ExxonMobil Research Qatar (EMRQ) announced that ExxonMobil has awarded virtual reality specialist EON Reality a global commercial license for new immersive process training technology developed by the two companies.
The technology incorporates ultra-realistic, multi-angle immersive virtual reality for training process operators and engineers in oil and gas production, processing and transportation facilities.
Plant operating conditions are replicated by the simulator to create realistic training scenarios for critical procedure execution, upset condition training, and emergency response training. According to the developers, the technology enables effective training to take place in a safe and controlled environment.
EMRQ has operated a full-scale simulator of an actual gas processing facility in Qatar since 2013, providing realistic training on more than 300 interactive control devices in six gas processing units.
"The Immersive 3D Operator Training Simulator provides a realistic 3D virtual environment that is a very close replica of an operating plant," commented Sara Ortwein, president of ExxonMobil Upstream Research Company. "These simulators are highly effective in training workers on how to prevent incidents, while teaching them to respond quickly and appropriately should any occur."
Mats W. Johansson, CEO of EON Reality, believes that the immersive training tool will change the way operators and plant crews train at existing facilities, and even before a facility starts operating.
"This truly is a flight simulator for plant operations," he said.
