The practical benefits of simulation have long been established as invaluable aids in the training of RAF and commercial pilots, as well as astronauts. Significant technological advances in recent years make it possible to accurately assess and improve spatial awareness, eye-and-hand co-ordination and reflexes.

BRD has applied these technological advances, in both software and hardware, to successfully apply simulation to the teaching of learner road-drivers, both privately and commercially.

Simulation enables the learner-driver to become confident in operating the steering and pedal controls and master basic driving manoeuvres before setting out for more advanced instruction on the roads. The versatility of the software, modelled on urban, suburban, rural and motorway traffic scenarios, also enables the introduction of a range of weather and lighting conditions, as well as road hazards common to everyday driving, and which cannot be replicated to order on the roads. Simulated tuition takes place in a totally controlled environment, therefore ensuring complete safety for the driver or pupil while, at the same time, minimising the costs of time, equipment and supervision.

BRD designed and built a mobile driver-training simulator, the first of its kind, for the Benson School of Motoring, one of the largest driving schools in the south-east of England. It is used not only as an introduction to driving for the basic learner but as an effective marketing tool at trade shows.

The simulator consists of the front half of a Peugeot 206, with the engine removed, and the host PC and a Fabriano XL image generator stored in the empty engine bay. The simulator is used on a marketing stand with a 41” plasma screen suspended from a gantry system in front of the windscreen of the car. The software traffic scenarios are based on a geotypical English town.

For further information, Contact Us