The tiny tankers are designed to realistically mimic the driving conditions of their full-sized brothers, with a slightly gentler learning curve. Emergency situations (like a failing engine) can be remotely triggered for training purposes. Oh, and feel free to quote that episode of The Simpsons with the big guy in the tiny car. That’s what you guys are here for. [DVICE]

The device is supposed to be used as part of the Armed Forces’ Multiple Integrated Laser Engagement System (MILES), which uses lasers and blank cartridges to simulate actual battle-kind of like a superior version of laser tag.

The vest is covered in LEDs that broadcast appropriate MILES codes over a wide area, simulating how much destruction would happen if a similar vest went off in the real world. It also has sensors for places best to hit to disable the wearer without setting off the bomb. Good thing to know, especially as our world continues to move towards battling guerrilla tactics rather than “Rules of Engagement”-style warfare. [Firearmblog]

I really don’t know if this photo is staged or not. And quite frankly, I don’t care, because knowing–and loving–dogs, this is how things should be. At least, if we are talking about Jones here. Screw training, lips be damned. [Dark Roasted Blend]

Now the real question is how long before an enterprising young police officer hacks it for some multiplayer Halo after it opens for training later this year.

[SMH]

Meet the manikins (not to be confused with mankinis), medical dummies (spelled “manikin”, apparently) used to train future doctors on how to do the bare minimum to keep you alive that the HMO will pay for. There are all types, from the sexy Overweight CPR manikin to the Deluxe Child Crisis manikin. My favourite is the Multi Man CPR manikin, because it reminds me of last weekend. Vote on your favourite, then report back here and we’ll compare notes. Next week we’ll feature Manikin II: On The Move. [Medical Mainikins on Oobject]

The simulator delivers an unprecedented level of realism that gives trainees a better and more accurate learning experience. Never again will a train operator not know what to do when he or she encounters something on the tracks (here’s a hint: ’stop’). The system just became available commercially for three million yen (about $31,000), so extremely rich Thomas the Tank Engine fans, it’s time to make your train-operating dreams come true! [Fareastgizmos]

With three modes for walking, jogging and aerobics, the device also accepts audio input from an MP3 player so you can jog along to your favourite tunes, or a recording of your most inspiring jody if you actually are a military type. Available in April for around US$53. [Tech.co.uk and Dvice]

According to researcher Kanav Kohel, only games that require delicate, small and precise movements work for surgery training. They used Marble Mania, which gets the player to control a ball over a 3D maze.

The Banner Good Samaritan Medical Centre study concluded that a cheap Wii could be an excellent substitute to enhance surgery skills in poor countries with no access to virtual simulators. The results of their research supports this conclusion: the Wii-enhanced group scored 50% better than the others. [BBC]

It works by employing a tiny accelerometer, whose data is wirelessly transmitted to a PC with software specially developed to analyze its data. By the time the device released in about a year to 18 months, the developers also hope to extend its range beyond its current 30 feet, and also enable it to monitor heart rate and other vital signs. [Technology Review]