Tideworks Technology Inc (Tideworks), a full-service supplier of complete terminal operating system (TOS) solutions, has recently announced the successful implementation of its DriverSIM at Manzanillo International Terminal (MIT).
MIT is one of Latin America’s most significant logistics hubs, connecting approximately 125 ports through its operations.
The implementation at MIT is the company’s first deployment of DriverSIM by Tideworks.
DriverSIM is a simulated, supplemental training tool for terminal yard tractor (UTR) drivers.
It leverages virtual reality (VR) technology so terminals can transition part of their equipment training to a virtual environment.
DriverSIM by Tideworks reportedly enhances efficiency, cost savings and safety for terminal operators and drivers by reducing equipment use and emissions across their terminal yards.
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Tideworks said it worked directly alongside MIT to develop the new solution, support beta testing and launch the first deployment of the new product.
Throughout the development process, the company customised the training to match MIT’s terminal environment, operators and common scenarios.
The teams monitored feedback and product performance to develop a solution that supports a multi-user training environment so multiple drivers can interact in a safe and simulated yard space before they enter the terminal.
“Tideworks was excited about the opportunity to create a new product with a long-term partner like MIT,” said Thomas Rucker, President of Tideworks Technology.
Rucker explained that Tideworks saw the opportunity to bring innovative technologies into the training of terminal personnel in a way that would provide a safer and more cost-effective solution.
“By partnering with MIT, we were able to bring this product to market in record time. We value MIT’s collaboration and believe DriverSIM will revolutionise training, not only for marine terminals but intermodal, inland rail and emerging markets,” added Rucker.
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As a simulation tool, DriverSIM by Tideworks allows repeatable training on high-incident yard scenarios at no risk to drivers or equipment.
This feature provides real-time metrics to help improve training outcomes and accuracy, leading to immediate and long-term cost savings, reported Tideworks.
MIT anticipates cutting training costs by more than 50 per cent.
“We’re thrilled to add DriverSIM by Tideworks to our training curriculum,” said William Monroe, Vice President of Operations with Manzanillo International Terminal.
Monroe expressed that collaborating with Tideworks and adding more emerging technology to MIT’s operations has been exciting.
“DriverSIM will help supplement our robust UTR training programme and will help us to establish greater consistency of skills, confidence and safety across our team of drivers,” explained Monroe.
DriverSIM by Tideworks can be customised so terminals can tailor the simulation and training to reflect their yard layout, operations and equipment types.
It is also available as an out-of-the-box configuration to help terminal operators meet immediate training needs and cost savings.
Training modules for additional equipment types, interactions between equipment and with Tideworks’ clerk applications, are on the roadmap for future product direction according to the company’s recent statement.
MIT went live with DriverSIM in May 2023. The solution is scheduled for public availability in June 2023.
In August 2020, Tideworks announced the go-live of its new marine TOS solution, Mainsail 10, at MIT.
