There has been an uptick in fatal accidents with large trucks. While the operators of the trucks and non-occupants are also at risk, 70% of the deaths in large truck collisions are occupants of the other vehicle. Working with heavy equipment is not without risk, but technology like collision avoidance systems is greatly enhancing job site safety.
WHAT ARE COLLISION AVOIDANCE SYSTEMS?
Collision avoidance systems use sensors, cameras, AI and more to navigate job sites. There are two components to these systems: alerting drivers of potential danger and assisting drivers in avoiding collisions. Since the top two causes of collisions are speed and distractions, this technology is increasingly helpful at both preventing collisions and reducing injury to those involved if a collision is unavoidable.
TYPES OF COLLISION AVOIDANCE SYSTEMS
There are several different kinds of collision avoidance systems, and they can help with different components needed to prevent or reduce harm from a collision. Some of these are:
- Adaptive cruise control: This system allows the operator to use cruise control, but sensors can detect if the vehicle in front is going slower than the set cruise control speed. The system can then slow the truck to a more suitable speed to prevent an accidental collision.
- Automatic emergency braking: This system also uses sensors to detect when a crash is imminent. The system can then apply brakes if the operator hasn’t done so yet, but it can also control the force of the brakes if the operator isn’t braking hard enough.
- Parking assistance: This feature uses rear-view cameras for operators to see behind the truck. It can also use sensors to park safely the vehicle while the operator can still control the speed.
- Blind spot warning: This system provides a visual warning that an object is detected near the truck.
- Pedestrian detection system: Sensors are used to monitor the path in front of the truck and equipment operators receive a visual warning to apply the brakes.
EQUIPMENT USING COLLISION AVOIDANCE SYSTEMS
Several heavy equipment manufacturers are using this technology to enhance job site safety. HD Hyundai’s Xite Solution features an award-winning smart collision mitigation (SCM) system. This system uses cameras and radar to sense objects around excavators. Volvo CE also offers collision mitigation systems that use automatic emergency braking. These systems can automatically slow or stop a truck if it senses a collision is imminent. Caterpillar’s collision avoidance system Proximity Awareness allows communications between different vehicles and offers collision warnings without the need for a robust job site radio network.
Operating heavy equipment can be dangerous, but collision avoidance features in these machines can help reduce the risk. These kinds of systems can enhance the safety measures your people are already taking, protecting your workers and your equipment. You’ll maintain safety and productivity, keeping your bottom line safe along with your people. You’ll get more runtime out of your machines and your workers can have peace of mind knowing that their safety will always come first.
Photo courtesy of HD Hyundai
