It looks different because transit agency experts helped us design it to meet their training needs. For example, a true 315° field of view was needed so instructors could teach mirror use and intersection awareness. Trainers needed it, and it was built.

It feels different because our authentic driver cab replication and application software create motion in the seat. Students can feel when they hit a curb, or turn too fast, or brake too hard. They learn which knobs to turn and toggles to press, and know it will be the same in the real bus.

Features

• A full powertrain (engine, transmission, axle ratio); accurate vehicle brakes; suspension system include shock absorbers, springs, and tire effects; a faithful replication of steering wheel feel and tendencies, and functional cab compartment controls.
• Vehicle models previously constructed include:
  29 foot diesel bus
  • 35 foot diesel bus
  • 40 foot diesel and/or CNG bus
  • 40 foot hybrid (diesel/electric)
  • 60 foot articulated bus
  • School bus
• Accurate reproduction of cab dashboard components enhance the life-like training environment with controls for items such as doors, air and interlock brakes, engine overrule, fire suppression, kneeling, master switch.
• FAAC's proprietary SmartNode^TM software creates seat bounce and vibration from elements such as acceleration and braking, turning, and curb strikes.

• FAAC's proprietary software system enables the student vehicle to respond to the environment and operator maneuvers, such as speed, road friction, wind, visibility, and driver inputs.
• Controls out-the-window visual scenes and vehicle sounds as they relate to driving and student performance.
• Provides signals to the student vehicle dashboard instruments.
• Senses and responds to student inputs, such as hard braking and oversteering.
• Provides realistic interaction between other driving stations networked to participate in the same training scenario.

• FAAC's system for creating the visual driving environment sets the standard for virtual reality training products.
• A combination of front, side, and rear screens can provide up to an industry leading 315° horizontal field of view of crisp, clear, virtual training worlds. Our vertical field of view also is tops in the industry.
• State-of-the-art flat screen monitors enable FAAC to install physical interior and exterior rear view mirrors that are vital to driver training.

• Provides a direct, real-time link between instructor and student/training session.
• Enables the instructor to manage one of several student driving sessions simultaneously.
• Controls traffic, weather, equipment malfunctions, daylight, lesson storage, and objective scoring on up to 15 different driving variables.
• Provides a location for instructor-student interaction tools, such as a desktop instructor driving console and pedestrian joystick control.

• Generates appropriate vehicle motor and other operational sounds of a municipal bus.
• Doppler effect sound configuration conveys the presence and location of passing vehicles, stationary obstructions, sirens, etc.
• Radio (intercom) system can be integrated into the driving station to support appropriate dispatcher/radio communications activity and training for the student driver through interaction with the instructor.

• Students learn how to set and manage use of real mirrors.
• Initial maneuvers can be introduced and perfected on the simulator before heading into real traffic on an actual bus.
• Instructors do not have to rescue students from danger so mistakes can progress to their natural end. In other words, a collision driving the simulator turns into a re-playable learning experience.
• Simulator training offers students multiple chances of success at completing training elements, such as turns, and the ability to practice as much as they want.
• An efficient use of training time, as conditions and situations can be created a few keystrokes.