Machine operation training apparatus and method

A method of teaching practices for operation of machines, comprising, at an apparatus comprising a plurality of input selectors and a plurality of status indicators:

• selecting one of a plurality of operator testing modes by operation of a first sub-set of said input selectors, said operator testing modes defining a sequence of input selections and a corresponding sequence of signals from said status indicators;
• selecting an operator testing mode modification by operation of a second sub-set of said input selectors, said modification comprising a modification of said sequence of input selections and a modification of said sequence of signals;
• activating said selected operator testing mode by operation of a selector of said input selectors;
• receiving input selections by operation of said input selectors;
• and
• activating an alarm in response to a selection that deviates from said sequence of input selections.

A training apparatus for teaching practices for operation of machines, comprising:

• an enclosure having wheels and a handle for manually moving said apparatus;
• a plurality of input selectors on said enclosure;
• a plurality of status indicators on said enclosure;
• an alarm;
• a programmable controller within said enclosure, connected with said input selectors, said status indicators and said alarm and switchable between programming and operator testing modes by operation of an input selector;
• said controller configured in said programming mode to:
• responsive to operation of a first sub-set of said input selectors, select an operator testing program of a plurality of operator testing programs each defining a sequence of input selections and a corresponding sequence of signals from said status indicators;
• and
• responsive to operation of a second sub-set of said input selectors, modify said sequence of input selections and said corresponding sequence of signals from said status indicators;
• said controller configured in said operator testing mode to receive input selections and to activate said alarm in response to deviation from said sequence of input selections of a selected testing program.