The SISMO TRUCK is a mobile vehicle of a new kind. Fully equipped with new technologies—a vibrating floor platform and virtual reality headsets—the interior of this former fire department ambulance allows for the simulation of the real-life conditions of six different earthquakes, recreating the tremors based on events that occurred in France and several countries in Europe and South America, as well as the associated damage in various environments. ANTICIPATING DISASTER Objective : -to raise public awareness and inform people about the correct actions to take in the event of a disaster. This experience helps people anticipate the event: if someone takes refuge under a table, they must adopt the correct safety position. If they are inside a building, on an upper floor, it is strongly advised against using the stairs to go down. These different situations can be experienced and tested by the user using these technologies. The concept, unique in Europe, was conceived by the International Emergency Firefighters (PUI), in collaboration with the French Association for Earthquake Engineering (AFPS) and the French Association for the Prevention of Natural and Technological Disasters (AFPCNT). The system: • A specially adapted vehicle allowing complete mobility and full autonomy, • A computer-controlled simulation platform that reproduces the waves and effects of any earthquake simultaneously on all three axes (x, y, and z), • Virtual reality (VR) content that evolves in real time based on the movements of the simulator and the user; content perfectly synchronized with the machine's movements for a comfortable experience, • Thematic materials will explain seismic risk, earthquake-resistant construction techniques, and the region in question. PROGRAM: • Presentation of seismic phenomena and their consequences, • Individual role-playing exercises, simulations, and virtual reality in the SISMO-TRUCK,
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This involves the design of the first mobile 360° virtual reality earthquake simulator combined with a simulation platform, allowing for individual simulations of seismic risk. This concept is unique in France, Europe, and internationally. The project's initiator, POMPIERS DE L'URGENCE INTERNATIONALE (International Emergency Firefighters), developed the unique concept of an earthquake simulator truck to, on the one hand, prepare the public, and on the other hand, conduct training sessions for vulnerable individuals exposed to seismic hazards. This mobile unit, equipped with a vehicle, will allow for easy transport to the numerous facilities that need to prepare the public, schoolchildren, and professionals for the risk of earthquakes, which are very prevalent in France and its overseas territories. The primary objective is to prepare the French and European population for the risk of earthquakes, whether in their own country or while traveling. The goals are therefore: - To raise awareness among schoolchildren about seismic risk, - To train target populations in earthquake simulations and their effects, - To develop survival skills in the event of a major earthquake, - To provide educational and scientific information on the origin of the phenomenon, - To teach rescue techniques and life-saving skills, - To train vulnerable populations, - In primary schools, middle schools, high schools, and university programs, - In corporate training and professional seminars (construction professionals, insurers, sensitive sites, nuclear power plants, etc.), - Earthquake-related events and conferences, - In museums, - In training for Civil Protection: rescue teams, the military, police, firefighters, etc. Our expertise in emergency response management and our international field experience in seismic disaster situations allow us to lead the innovative project to design the first mobile earthquake simulator in France, the Sismo-Truck.
This innovation, which uses virtual reality combined with a real-world simulation, will allow us to disseminate a universal prevention message to populations exposed to seismic hazards. It places them at the heart of an individual simulation, combining 360-degree virtual reality with a seismic simulation platform, allowing the public to experience the effects of five computer-programmed earthquakes based on actual seismograms of each event—a true identity card of the phenomenon. This innovation benefit the general public, schoolchildren, construction professionals, insurers, civil protection teams, and local authorities, enabling them to prepare and acquire knowledge for long-term prevention efforts. Our scientific partners is providing the necessary educational support and scientific validation for this unique equipment, which is using in France, Europe, and around the world, encompassing nearly 120 countries at risk of earthquakes. Numerous internal supports will allow adaptation to the seismology of each region, or each country. Today this concept is unique in France and Europe; indeed, there is no other vehicle equipped with an earthquake simulator that is also associated with virtual reality content.A unique simulation of five earthquakes of varying magnitudes, intensities, and depths allows for individual experience. The virtual reality content evolves in real time based on the movements of both the simulator and the viewer. The virtual reality content is synchronizing with the movements of the simulation platform and adapting to any earthquake.The simulation platform is controlling by automated systems and specialized software. Thematic displays are explaining the seismic phenomena, earthquake-resistant construction techniques, and seismic risk in the region being explored. Models are also providing a better understanding of tectonic plate movement and its effects on the Earth's surface.
The SISMO TRUCK is a mobile earthquake simulation platform designed to reduce human vulnerability to seismic risk through immersive, experiential training. Earthquakes strike suddenly and without warning, often causing injuries not only due to structural collapse but also because of panic, inappropriate reactions, and lack of preparedness. While building standards have significantly improved in many countries, behavioral readiness remains a critical weakness in disaster risk management. The SISMO TRUCK addresses this gap by transforming theoretical knowledge into physical experience. Inside a secure and controlled environment, participants are exposed to realistic ground-shaking simulations reproducing different levels of seismic intensity. They experience the difficulty of maintaining balance, the displacement of objects, and the immediate disorientation caused by strong vibrations. This sensory exposure creates lasting cognitive and behavioral anchoring. By experiencing simulated shaking, individuals develop faster and more appropriate reflexes, such as dropping to the ground, protecting their head, and seeking safe shelter. The goal is not to eliminate fear, but to channel it into structured and effective action. Familiarity with the sensation of an earthquake significantly reduces the risk of panic and chaotic behavior during a real event. The mobility of the SISMO TRUCK is a major innovation. Unlike fixed simulation centers, it can be deployed directly to schools, universities, companies, public institutions, and remote communities. This accessibility strengthens seismic risk culture at a territorial level and supports national disaster risk reduction strategies. In addition to public awareness, the platform can be integrated into crisis management exercises, allowing organizations to test emergency procedures under realistic conditions. Decision-makers gain practical insight into human reactions during seismic events, improving planning and coordination.
The "PUI" association is made up of emergency response professionals with experience in crisis situations. All members of this organization volunteer their time and can be mobilized quickly to act effectively. The "PUI" association is competent in the following areas: - emergency interventions during natural or humanitarian disasters with personnel specializing in rescue, detection, and locating buried victims.
The "PUI" association is made up of emergency response professionals with experience in crisis situations. All members of this organization volunteer their time and can be mobilized quickly to act effectively. The "PUI" association is competent in the following areas: - emergency interventions during natural or humanitarian disasters with personnel specializing in rescue, detection, and locating buried victims.