volvo trucks 360 degree scan analyzes risks and suggests new actions

volvo trucks 360 degree scan analyzes risks and suggests new actions
images courtesy of volvo trucks

volvo trucks are developing a new technology which can dramatically reduce the risk of accidents caused by a limited field of vision. the vehicles are capable of doing 360° scans of everything in its surroundings in order to evaluate the information and then suggest actions to evade incidents. this means collisions with pedestrians, cyclists and other automobiles can be avoided as even if the driver does not respond, the steering or braking system activates autonomously. the main component is a data platform that fuses the sensory input from cameras, radars and other sensors positioned on all sides of the truck.

the technology enables a 360° scan of its surroundings every 25 milliseconds meaning data input is almost constant. it is a result of a unique research project called non-hit car and truck, and is in its test phase meaning it may not become a reality for at least five years.

‘our vision for traffic safety is to have no accidents involving volvo trucks,’ says carl johan almqvist, volvo trucks‘ traffic and product safety director. ‘this unique technology has taken us yet another step towards our vision and will hopefully save many lives in the future.’

‘we have the main components in place but we need to do a lot more testing in order to make sure that the system is fault-free. if we manage to solve these challenges, a future without truck accidents is within reach.’

lane changing support detects vehicles in the blind spot on the passenger’s side

‘the technology can predict traffic scenarios up to five seconds ahead, depending on the speed of the objects, and map out the best plan of action,’ says mansour keshavarz, systems engineer at volvo trucks, who has worked with the technology. ‘in many ways the technology serves as a co-driver – but one that can see all around the vehicle. it can also alert the driver to things that are happening so that he or she can react, for example by warning with an alarm signal or braking to avoid a collision.’

‘trucks are a different type of vehicle and do not act the same way as cars in traffic. each truck is loaded differently, for example, and their large size prevents them from carrying out severe avoidance maneuvers – such as swerving quickly to avoid a collision. so it is important to research and develop technology specifically for trucks,’ he continued.

if suggestions are ignored, autonomous braking and steering systems can take over in case of emergencies

the system includes collision warning with emergency brake

the technology warns drivers of possible accidents