Forklift simulation in 3D environment

• Main Author: Phyo, Zin Win
• Other Authors: Cai Yiyu
• Format: Final Year Project
• Language: English
• Published: 2015
• Subjects: DRNTU::Engineering::Mechanical engineering
• Online Access: http://hdl.handle.net/10356/64953
• Institution: Nanyang Technological University

A forklift is a small but powerful piece of machinery which is used to lift, shift and move large loads of material from one place to another in an industry. Forklifts are primarily used for lifting and transferring heavy loads to stations or locations in warehouses, shops, construction sites, manufacturing facilities, ports, airports, shipyards and many other places. Unfortunately, a large number of occupational accidents are also related to their use. Among all types of accident, tip over accidents are of particular importance due to their prevalence and the severity of the injuries suffered by the operator. Hence, the specialised training of the forklift operators becomes extremely important so that the operators will understand the limitations of the forklift, and the rules of safe and efficient operation. Whenever the real-life, hands on practical training in the field is either too costly or dangerous, 3D virtual simulation training could provide a beneficial and efficient alternative to the industry. This project involves the creation of virtual forklift, warehouse and terrain visualisations and animations using the Unity 3D game engine. This will allow people to drive a simulated forklift around a 3D virtual simulation model of a warehouse as well as the terrain and thus could be used for training and other applications. Though the virtual forklift in this project is created by simple method for the demonstration and simulation purpose, the virtual driver, the safety sensor, forklift engine sound will make the trainee feel realistic environment. By using 3D virtual simulation model, driver can be trained virtually and can gain enough experience before going out for practical operating training in high risk situation, without being exposed to any real danger.