Two new virtual reality training systems for woodworkers, both available in North America, have been named IWF Challengers finalists and will be on display in Atlanta at booth #8373. 

Wood-Ed Table, from Taurus Craco and Mimbus, is a unique virtual training system that simulates four different types of woodworking machines (band saw, dimensioning saw, planer and router) on the same virtual table.

The user is immersed into a realistic experience in 3D vision and sound while the unique force feedback system creates a genuine feeling of resistance, vibration and motion. 

The second system, Wood-Ed Factory, offers a virtual training environment that replicates the real situation of a modern sawmill operator to teach, track, and provide instant feedback through a progressive set of exercises and powerful learning management system (LMS).

Wood-Ed products can be used to enhance a company’s existing training programs or within a company’s employee screening process. Both provide a real, convincing immersive experience and robust learning management to ensure the desired goal: safe, confident, and well-trained students and employees.

The systems work by tracking the user’s hand motion and providing him/her with a realistic 3D vision of the tool and wood materials. A unique force feedback system based on a magnetic field generates resistance to recreate the real feeling of wood cutting.

With Wood-Ed, students and instructors are able to progressively analyze, target and correct problem areas while enhancing safe, proficient training and machine operation. Moreover, virtual environments mean no dust, no material waste, and no downtime. Employees are able to practice skills safely and realistically at their challenge level practicing with variables like wood hardness and cutting requirements. 

Wood-Ed made its North American debut at WMS Wood Machinery & Supply Expo 2015.