A virtual harbour for Whitby pilots
The 3D computer simulation of Whitby Harbour will provide pilots with a very realistic training experience.
A virtual computer model of Whitby Port in the UK is to be created, paving the way for a new harbour pilots training programme.
The first stage of the initiative will be the creation of a new 3D virtual model of Whitby Harbour. To do this, South Tyneside College will take digital photos and video footage of the area and convert them into computer graphics.
The digital database will then be used to train the pilots in the safe simulated marine environment at South Tyneside College.
Chris Thompson, head of the marine simulation unit at South Tyneside College said, ‘Our simulation unit provides an experience as close to real life as you’ll ever get and gives pilots a unique opportunity to test out their skills in a safe and controlled environment. Using this new model, the pilots will be able to navigate up and down Whitby Harbour as if they were actually there. The project will start very shortly and we are looking forward to working closely with the pilots.
Martin Willis, Scarborough Borough Council’s harbour Master for Whitby and Scarborough harbours added, ‘This project marks an important step forward for our harbours. For the first time in our history we will have a virtual model of Whitby Harbour, which can then be used to fine tune our pilots’ knowledge and skills.’
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