simulators' are starting to talk

One sign that simulator technology is changing fast and becoming more sophisticated is the recent introduction by UK-based PC Maritime of what has been billed as the world's first 'speaking' engine room simulator. The Virtual Engine Room (VER 4.5) has been enhanced with the addition of synthesised speech capability. Checklist instructions and communications with the bridge are all spoken and fully integrated into the scenarios provided by the simulator. A unique artificial intelligence expert system called 'Ask Chief' tells the user what should be done as a next step in engine room preparation or equipment malfunction. PC Maritime says VER 4.5 comes in three formats to suit training budgets. It can be supplied as software only to run on a single PC with twin-screen support or on a network. It can also form part of a desktop console or be set up as a full-size engine room console for greater realism.