Putting people on offshore platforms, FPSOs, and other remotely operating vessels just for training purposes not only is costly, but it introduces risk to platform operators, their co-workers, the facility itself, and the environment. Because of advances in simulation, visualization, and interactive gaming technology, however, it is now possible for offshore operators to learn much of their craft in a safe, realistic training environment.

Reducing risk

Virtual reality simulation is particularly well-suited for use in upstream E&P, where remote and unsafe locations are increasingly common. This type of technology enables platform operators to receive 80% to 90% of their training in a virtual environment, which can significantly reduce cost and risk. For example, risk of injury can be eliminated because operators are not immediately placed in an unfamiliar offshore environment. They are less likely in a position to make a mistake that could lead to negative consequences, such as a spill, and less likely to encounter an emergency situation they have never before experienced.

Simulated training also is useful for operations based in extreme climates such as the Arctic or in remote locations. For such sites, it is better to deploy fully trained operators rather than rely on only partially trained operators who are expected to learn in the field. The risk to operators, equipment, and the environment in such extreme locations might be comparable to other closer or near-shore locations, but if the trainee somehow instigates an emergency or other abnormal situation in such remote and harsh environments, it is harder to respond as efficiently.

Simulated training can be especially valuable in high-hazard areas. Some drilling areas in the Caspian Sea, for example, come with a high amount of sulfur and sour gas, with high pressure levels and very high temperatures. Sending untrained or partially trained operators into these environments is dangerous. Advanced training, however, can reduce the risk considerably. Using virtual reality simulation, trainees can rehearse and respond to problems and abnormal situations repeatedly so they know exactly where they are supposed to be and what they are supposed to do if the situation occurs in real life.

The EYESIM immersive virtual reality training system integrates virtual walkthroughs of facilities such as this offshore oil platform with advanced simulation and modeling software. (Images courtesy of Invensys Operations Management)

Managing new talent

Simulators also provide access to and knowledge of facility processes, enabling remote management through unmanned execution and robotic control in hazardous areas. Simulators can help train operators on new systems as well as train new or younger operators and engineers in a real-time, immersive environment, helping companies retain and replenish the specialized knowledge they need to improve their operations. Not only does simulation provide trainees with a more realistic environment for extended practice sessions, it promotes safer shutdowns and turnaround and also speeds knowledge acquisition by exposing operators to best practices, procedures, and site-specific processes more quickly, further reducing the risk of operator error. Users interact with the virtual facility via devices such as game controllers, data gloves, or joy sticks. Special optical and audio devices such as head-mounted displays, 3-D graphics, and surround sound provide a realistic setting for training simulation.

New software

One virtual reality system that is being implemented in upstream oil and gas applications is the 3-D EYESIM immersive virtual reality solution from Invensys Operations Management. The EYESIM technology links control room operators to field and maintenance operators by means of a high-fidelity process simulation and virtual facility environment. It provides complete facility crew training to improve skills that are critical to safety by enabling operators to perform tasks in a simulated environment, allowing them to react quickly and correctly, facilitating reactions in high-stress conditions, and instilling standards for teamwork and communications.

The Invensys solution is based on a modeling engine powered by the company’s SimSci-Esscor DYNSIM simulation software, which is coupled with a high-performing virtual reality engine and a high-quality 3-D modeling/ scanning toolset. The simulations are based on first-principle modeling of the platform so the operator experience is similar to what would be experienced on a real platform, right down to ambient noise, light, and conditions.

The EYESIM simulator has now been extended to iPhone and iPad users, and all “touch” facilities are available for a complete user experience. The mobile EYESIM offering, using Cloud computing, allows users to be “virtually” trained on systems, operational procedures, and plant environments. Extending the EYESIM model to mobile devices allows unfettered access to procedures, processes, and operational statements of work without having to be at a terminal.

The mobile EYESIM also can be used for simulating facility experiences in the classroom. Instructors and supervisors can monitor dynamically and in real time a trainee’s position and behavior in the virtual facility environment through a client application running on a hand-held device.

The mobile EYESIM offering allows operators to simulate and monitor systems, operational procedures, and plant environments in a virtual environment on hand-held devices.

Increasing safety, efficiency

Experience is sometimes defined as “recognizing your mistake the second time you make it.” Virtual environments help teach trainees how to adapt to rapidly changing, extremely hazardous operating conditions so they can make their first mistake in a risk-free environment. These are the skills operators traditionally have had to develop within the school of hard knocks.

Simulation technology serves a valuable HSE function as well because operators are more fully and capably trained before implementing an operational procedure or process. Simulators can be used for predictive analysis, teaching safety procedures such as escape routes, tracking and visualization, accident investigation, and standardized escalation and remediation procedures. By documenting safety and environmental procedures, simulators also can facilitate and improve regulatory compliance with the goal of helping to reduce emissions.

Three-D immersive virtual reality training helps trainees achieve goals quicker and with fewer risks to themselves, their communities, and their environment.