New product: Virtual reality forklift trainer

AMHERST, New York—A video game-like system promises those learning how to operate a forklift the chance to practice their skills in a safe, virtual environment.

3D Forklift from Tactus Technologies in Amherst, New York offers a step-by-step curriculum that covers forklift basics, forklift inspection, operator precautions, driving safety, forklift don’ts, basic loading and unloading, unstable and unsafe loads, load placement on a rack, driving on a ramp, and tires and grades.

The system is PC-based and uses a video gaming steering wheel as an input device. Customers may customize the virtual learning environment to make it resemble their place of business.

According to the company, the system provides enhanced hands-on training in situations that could be dangerous in real life, without the risk to people or property. The system is designed to force the operator to react to events and make decisions about the vehicle’s operation, all while providing immediate feedback to their actions.

A grant from the US National Institutes of Occupational Safety and Health funded the development of 3D Forklift.