ExplainMedia's Virtual Refinery Add-On:
The New Standard in Process Technology Simulations

Operator Training Simulators have been around for decades. Started as hardware-based solutions, in the 1980s OTS applications became available for PCs. In 2005, ExplainMedia came up with a new innovation: A virtual reality component showing the outside operator view. This 3D world is dynamically linked to the process simulator.

ExplainMedia has taken proven training programs, provided by Simulation Solutions, Inc., and has developed corresponding 3D Virtual Refinery modules. With this Virtual Refinery Add-On, Outside Operators can actually open and close hand-operated valves, start and stop pumps, take field reading, see and hear equipment running, communicate with the control room, etc. Instructors can mentor and manage training sessions, instead of being tied up in role playing the functions of an Outside Operator from previously provided “remote function” switches.

Users can navigate towers, reactors and observe dynamically over a full range of operating conditions how equipment, feedstock, catalysts, and products  respond to changing feed rates, temperatures, pressures, etc. All Outside Operator station functions and responses are being driven by differential equations and mathematical models.

The Virtual Refinery packages developed for Simulation Solutions, Inc. include a 12 module Distillation Series and several complete plant modules. On-line demonstrations are available.

Detailed Custom Programs, realistic DCS Emulations, and state-of-the-art Virtual Reality based Outside Operator Stations combine to form the key elements of the Virtual Refinery, and create a “test bench” capability for safety and engineering studies previously unavailable. Users can “field test” control schemes and outside operator duties against a virtual plant, and also improve procedures, conduct realistic training for entire operations teams, and ultimately help develop the most efficient and safest way to troubleshoot and respond to plant upsets and emergencies.

The VR modules developed for Simulation Solutions include the modules listed below. For more information about the products of Simulation Solutions, please visit their website.

Contact us for a free online demonstration or additional information about our products and services.