In preparation for our trip to CONEXPO-CON/AGG next week, our team in the US have been putting the final touches to one of the demos that will debut at the show. The demo showcases our new VIA Mobile360 Obstacle Detection solution, an advanced in-vehicle safety system that uses sensor fusion to give drivers and larger machine operators vastly improved situational awareness, especially in heavy industrial environments.
The CONEXPO-CON/AGG trade show takes place in Las Vegas next week and is very much focused on heavy industries such as mining, quarrying, earth moving and other industrial sectors where very large, specialized vehicles and equipment are used. For these industries it’s clear that the integration of specially adapted safety technologies is becoming increasingly compulsory with more pressure than ever to improve safety standards.
The VIA Mobile360 Obstacle Detection solution helps give employees behind the wheel a much improved view of their surroundings with four FOV-190° gen-lock cameras located on each side of the vehicle. These automotive-grade cameras are integrated to create a Surround View System (SVS), providing the driver with a 360° view of the surrounding area.
Going beyond cameras, we have also implemented an array of ultrasonic proximity sensors that can detect people or objects around the vehicle at a distance of up to six feet. This sensor data is reproduced on screen in color bands that represent relative distance from the vehicle.
When people talk about the benefits of using either cameras or sensors, lidar or radar in automotive solutions, there are arguments for the relative benefits of all three. Right now our strategy favors using sensor fusion, i.e. using a combination of sensor technologies that harness the advantages of both worlds. In this case, cameras offer a clear view of surroundings in most conditions, but are backed by ultrasonic proximity sensors that are especially effective in dusty, foggy or low light conditions, or times when camera vision may be impaired.
In the video below, VIA Senior Sales Director Ciaran Mac Neill gives us a tour around the Obstacle Detection demo – which for the sake of convenience and portability, is shown mounted on a miniature CAT digger. Ciaran shows us how the driver is given a display that combines both SVS and proximity sensor alerts in real-time, to ensure they have every opportunity to avert danger and collisions.
For a more detailed look at the hardware used in the demo check out the video below. William Wong takes us through the individual components, system and cables that make it all work. You can also check out this video which gives a precise, step-by-step account of the how the demo was constructed.
You can learn more about VIA’s presence at CONEXPO-CON/AGG here. Finally, if you are intending to attend the show, don’t forget to stop by booth #B90725 in the Bronze Hall and get some first-hand experience of VIA Mobile360 in-vehicle safety solutions. You can also contact us to arrange a meeting.
