Åkerströms Brings Innovation to the Forefront through Virtual Reality

Allgon, a global leader in industrial radio control solutions, is proud to announce that its subsidiary, Åkerströms Björbo, has launched an innovative virtual training tool designed to significantly improve personal safety during heavy lifting operations.

Åkerströms Björbo, renowned for its commitment to safe and sustainable radio control solutions, has developed proprietary VR simulators that provide a realistic and secure training environment for crane operators. These simulators are tailored to meet the rigorous demands and standards of the Swedish industry, enabling operators to practice critical tasks such as precision driving, handling load swings, and safely maneuvering around suspended loads. The training tool includes several modules, culminating in a final exam where participants receive a detailed performance summary.

“With our VR training, operators can perform risky maneuvers in a safe, visual world that is designed to be authentic and engaging, optimizing the learning experience,” says Magnus Kenger, Business Developer at Åkerströms. “We can also provide other personnel on the work site with a chance to experience the crane operator’s work, enhancing overall understanding and further improving safety.”

The simulator is ideal for both introductory and refresher training for crane operators, ensuring they maintain the necessary skills for safe and efficient crane handling. Training intervals can be optimized and results documented, providing employers with reliable data to extend operators’ licenses.

“Our proprietary training method is rooted in Åkerströms’ over 60 years of experience in controlling risky manual lifting within the industry, which is integral to the pedagogy behind the training. This initiative aims to raise safety awareness and competence among future crane operators,” adds Magnus Kenger.

Feedback from heavy industry representatives highlights that many complex and dangerous tasks require extensive training. By practicing these tasks in a safe, digital environment, a safer work environment is fostered, and costs are reduced due to increased efficiency and fewer injuries.

Hans Åkerblom, CEO and Sales Manager, shares his enthusiasm, “The VR training, combined with our Access_Ctrl service, ensures that all operations adhere to established safety standards, drastically reducing the risk of human error. Access_Ctrl also enables effective monitoring and control of all lifting operations, optimizing safety and efficiency in the workplace.”

Strategic Partnerships for Success

The success of Åkerströms’ innovative training solutions is further exemplified by their recent collaboration with Nuclear Safety and Training AB (KSU). This strategic partnership aims to enhance crane operator training with VR technology and digital safety measures, particularly within the nuclear industry. By integrating Åkerströms’ Access_Ctrl and VR technology into KSU’s training programs, the collaboration has set a new benchmark for safety and operational efficiency in highly demanding environments.

Overall, Åkerströms enhances its total offering through a comprehensive solution for maximum safety at industrial sites or as a standalone offering to educational institutes and schools. This innovative training tool marks a significant advancement in ensuring the safety and competence of crane operators within the industry.

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