Suspended Simulator

Suspended Simulator Cradle

Multi-level Simulator

This suspended simulator cradle was designed to house what is known as the ‘Teacup’ – a multi-level simulator, ordinarily sat on a solid floor.

Software used:

The Background

As an integral feature of the main hall of the new NMK (Norwegian Maritime Competence Center) in Alesund, Norway, the suspended simulator hangs over newcomers as they enter the main entrance.

A stunning sight, it houses a cutting edge ship’s bridge simulator on the upper most level, with a viewing gantry on a lower level.

The photograph to the left shows the CGI version before building work commenced. You can see the two layers through the cutaway side walls of the outer projection screen.

Component Fitting

As we had already produced interior visualisations of the NMK building, we had access to the architect’s 3D files.

We had also produced various product visualisations of the client’s product range, and so had CAD data related to those.

We used Autodesk Inventor to flesh out ideas that would allow the Teacup to hang over the main entrance in a graceful fashion, and that would also allow access to the two simulator levels.

General Arrangements

Once an idea for the method of keeping the whole product suspended had been finalised, drawings were completed to allow the structural engineers to begin working on the calculations needed to bring it to life.