AEB Invades the Trucking Industry
Automatic Emergency Braking Systems (AEB) can automatically apply a vehicle’s brakes to avoid or mitigate a collision. In recognizing the potentially life-saving effects, the auto industry voluntarily incorporated the systems, and it did not take long for the trucking industry to follow suit.
In 2015, the American Trucking Association (ATA) announced its support for federal regulation requiring AEB technology on all new U.S. trucks by the model year 2017. Driver assist technologies, such as AEB, lead to fewer accidents, less congestion and lower emissions. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) also announced that by 2017 all large trucks must incorporate Electronic Stability Controls (ESC). The NHTSA estimated that ESC systems will save up to 49 lives and prevent up to 1,750 crashes each year.
AEB utilizes sensors to detect obstacles ahead and determine whether a collision is imminent. The system first warns the driver that he or she needs to apply the brakes using audible alarms and dashboard warning lights. If the driver does not take action, the autonomous system kicks in and applies the brakes automatically. The system utilizes technology used in adaptive cruise control systems to improve safety.
There are a number of terms used in the industry: Forward Collision Avoidance and Mitigation Technology (FCAM), Forward Collision Warning (FCW), Crash Imminent Braking (CIB), Dynamic Brake Support (DBS), Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB), and Collision Mitigation Braking (CMB). For simplification, FCAM technologies are systems that combine FCW signals and CMB automatic braking capabilities.
Identifying Cab Mounted Display Unit of Pulse-Modulated Radar Sensor to Vehicle Side
Forward Collision Avoidance and Mitigation systems use all-weather radars capable of detecting objects via radio waves that determine angle, velocity, and range. The system also incorporates laser and image recognition cameras to detect an imminent crash. GPS sensors can help detect fixed dangers or warnings ahead, such as approaching stop signs or stopped vehicles. The system offers two methods of collision avoidance or mitigation, depending on the situation: collision avoidance by braking at low speeds below 50 km/h and collision avoidance by steering at higher speeds. It is possible to have a combination of both systems.
Vehicles with collision avoidance are also equipped with Adaptive Cruise Control and utilize the same forward-looking sensors. Adaptive Cruise Control Systems can measure the speed of the vehicle ahead and keep proper distance by closing the throttle, downshifting and, if necessary, activating the automatic braking system. International is one of the manufacturers at the vanguard of AEB systems. Its DuraStar line is now available with Bendix Wingman Fusion.
Bendix Wingman Fusion is an integration of safety technologies built into the Bendix Electronic Stability Program (ESP). The comprehensive driver assist system includes radar, cameras, the vehicle’s brake system and SafetyDirect by Bendix CVS. The system, which was initially offered on the International Class 8 ProStar model, potentially allows drivers to reduce speed and avoid collisions altogether. Due to the system’s proven results and the demand from the Class 6-7 Medium-duty industry, International extended the system to its DuraStar line. A Cummins ISL9, rated at up to 380 hp and 1,250 lb.ft. of torque, is also offered on the WorkStar and DuraStar lines — the result of an engineering partnership between the two manufacturers.
Proper maintenance and adjustment of these systems is essential for accurate and safe operation. The figure below shows an example of the information available in Mitchell1 TruckSeries. The software provides step-by-step diagnostics, maintenance and repair information on the latest collision avoidance systems in the industry.