Video Game
Slinger 09-30-2008
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I was doing a set of walls today when I sat down and set the remote on my lap. One of the wall guys asked me if I ever played many video games. When I looked down at my remote (Putz) it seemed to resemble my kids PS2 controllers. I got to thinking that would make a cool video game.

It could put you in different scenarios, alot like a simulator would do, or you could have a pump-off and go head to head with other pumps and operators.

Safety bonuses awarded of course and for proper hose selection and set-ups. I starting to wish I was a programmer instead of an operator.....not.
Garneaux 09-30-2008
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I think it would make a great training aide. especially when it come to changing control styles. Seth
FunnyBoom 10-01-2008
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Sure virtual boom is a great simulator I have used it at the plant and its pretty cool but it would be cool to have something that has more to it. Finances and different scenarios, bad economies, new competitors, bitching customers, and so on, much like Sim City. Then maybe some of these boneheads could play the game, go bankrupt sell all their pumps and realize that its not for them before they ever figure out a way to purchase a real pump. Hell maybe some of the big boys could learn from this. I see this being the next big thing. Online Concrete Pumping Tycoon! All the people can compare companies and compete with each other. I think it would be a hit with any operator that actually had some time to play it. Or maybe not considering we deal with it enough throughout the day and dont wanna come home to more of it.
Phill 10-01-2008
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Hi Guys,

When I was at Schwing my department did exactly that – The “Virtual Boom”.  You take your receiver out of the truck and use a special adapter cable to hook it to your computer. You then use your actual remote to run the whole program, change scenarios, change views, adjust output, move the boom (proportional), honk horn, etc etc.

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 SCHWING MAKES VIRTUAL BOOM AVAILABLE TO CUSTOMERS

Schwing brings the latest technology to its customers with the Virtual Boom. This practical tool allows operators to utilize a conventional radio remote box to realistically simulate boom movement of a concrete pump on-screen. This sophisticated combination of hardware and software was demonstrated at the 2000 World of Concrete.

The Virtual Boom was developed around a four-section Schwing S45SX with overhead roll and fold boom. Several scenarios can be chosen including wall pours, slabs and upper decks. The operator is given targets for placement. He can also choose several vantagepoints to view the "pour." In the event of a mishap, the user of the Virtual Boom is given a visual and audible warning. Boom movements are proportional to the joystick movements as in real life.

Customers can order the Virtual Boom software from Schwing America. The hardware to convert a customer supplied remote box is included. The Virtual Boom is compatible with 500 MHz PC-based computers running Windows NT with a 32 meg video card. Customers who ordered the system at the World of Concrete expressed an interest in using the Virtual Boom for operator training.

For more information and details on hardware requirements, contact:

Schwing America, Inc.
Attn: Phil Serre
5900 Centerville Rd
White Bear, MN 55127
Tel 651-429-0999

 
Big Tobacco 10-01-2008
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When running a Putz z-fold, I tell them it's alot like an etch-a-sketch... but if you screw up you can't turn it over and erase your mistake...

Big T
FunnyBoom 10-02-2008
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Ha never heard that one. Thats how I feel inside some of these buildings