(Source: Road Safety Association, 2016-2021 study)
Drivers are unable to see vulnerable road users in close proximity to the vehicle, with the passenger-side blind spot, front and rear being the main problem areas especially in lower speed maneouvres. Likewise, cyclists and pedestrians are largely unaware of such limitations, entering the HGV’s blind spots resulting in them staying in the HGV’s blind spots for extensive periods of time.
A great deal of attention is being placed on the dangers of blind spots through the introduction of safety schemes and legislations such as TFL Direct Vision Standard and FORS, as well as initiatives such as the National Highways ‘Know the Zones’ blind spot safety campaign.
When it comes to blind spot elimination, there are a few different options; ultrasonic sensors, radar and cameras, to name a few.
Due to increased legislation requirements (DVS 2024 to name one) as well as an increased safety-first culture, AI camera blind spots systems are perhaps the most obvious choice. Thanks to their superior accuracy levels in VRU detection, driver visual aid, flexibility in mounting position and overall detection coverage, they provide the most comprehensive safety solution.
An AI camera technology kit eliminating all nearside and front blind spots (with optional rear-view); imminently alerting the driver and VRU of any danger.
Vehicle Applications: Both Rigid & Articulated HGVs
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A 2D and 3D Bird’s Eye view of the entire vehicle surrounding, providing an all-weather real-time display around the vehicle at all times, completely eliminating blind spots.
Vehicle Applications: Rigid HGVs
FIND OUT MOREAI CAMERAS | ULTRASONIC SENSORS | |
Detection Zones | No shortfall in detection and far greater detection zone. | Limited field of detection, with blind zones or areas where VRUs go undetected. |
Object Recognition | Accurately distinguishes between VRUs and street furniture. Mounted at height, cameras provide excellent visual awareness for drivers. | Mounted low. Does not differentiate between VRUs and street furniture. Cannot penetrate dense objects such as vehicles & walls. |
False Alarms | Trained to achieve 0% False Alarms: Helps to ensure driver buy-in and improve driver behaviour. | High False Positives: Due to street furniture alerts. Possible reflection issues leading to inconsistent reading for irregular and moving objects. |
Warning Signals | Significantly earlier detection of VRUs. | Warning signals often too late or ignored by drivers. |
Near Misses | Easily paired with video recording systems to review near misses and risky driving. | Generally work independently of recording systems. |
Weather Conditions | Less affected by weather conditions. | Can be overly sensitive - often set off by rain or temperature changes. |
Vehicle Types | Excellent for both rigid and articulated vehicles. | Impractical for detection past the cab for articulated vehicles with trailers. |
Performance & Maintenance | Mounted high - away from water spray, much and debris. | Mounted low - effects the performance and durability of the tech. |
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