Dr Air Brake: enhancing safety with Reverse Smart
Dr Air Brake’s safety product portfolio includes Reverse Smart, an advanced automatic controlled reverse braking system said to be especially suitable for use in high-risk environments.
“From road sweepers, refuse collectors and fire truck to HGV tippers, tar sprayers and even a mobile library unit, hundreds of vehicles are now equipped with Reverse Smart,” said Dr Air Brake.
“The risks of operating large vehicles without a sophisticated reversing system are substantial. These risks include the potential loss of life, increased insurance premiums, potential jail time for drivers, vehicle damage, litigation costs, and hefty fines.
“Reverse Smart addresses these concerns by offering a proactive solution that can be installed on any truck equipped with air brakes, either with rear detection only or both forward and rear detection, all functioning at low speeds.”
Reverse Smart utilises a highly reliable 77GHz radar system, says the company, designed for optimal performance in automotive applications.
“When an object or person enters the programmed danger zone behind the vehicle, the system immediately issues an audible and visual warning to the driver. As the object approaches closer, these warnings intensify.
“If the driver does not take action, Reverse Smart steps in to prevent a potential disaster by automatically applying the brakes, bringing the vehicle to a controlled stop for three seconds—enough time to ensure the safety of those in the danger area.”
One of the standout features of Reverse Smart is its gentle pulsing of the autobrake.
“This method ensures a controlled stop, avoiding the harsh jolts that could otherwise cause damage to the vehicle’s drivetrain or discomfort for the driver.
“Moreover, Reverse Smart ‘talks’ to the vehicle using CAN Bus network communication, a method that integrates seamlessly with the vehicle’s existing systems and preserves the warranty while maintaining smooth operational conditions.”
Reverse Smart is not only effective but also trusted, says the company.
“It is VCA-approved, and our production processes are VCA-audited, underscoring the system’s reliability and adherence to rigorous safety standards.
“The importance of Reverse Smart becomes even more apparent in densely populated areas where the margin for error is minimal. Local authorities and fleet operators should consider Reverse Smart not just as a safety feature but as a mandatory system to safeguard both the public and their drivers.”
Reverse Smart is adaptable to various types of vehicles and operational needs, says Dr Air Brake: it can be installed on electric heavy goods vehicles, offering the same level of safety without compromising the vehicle’s unique powertrain.
Fire trucks are a further possible application.
“In high-pressure environments, such as emergency response situations, Reverse Smart helps protect emergency workers who are at increased risk of accidents due to the urgency of their tasks,” said the firm.
The system is also suitable for mobile library vehicles, which often park inside shopping malls where pedestrian traffic is high.
“Reverse Smart ensures safe manoeuvring in these challenging environments,” said Dr Air Brake.
“Investing in Reverse Smart is not just about meeting compliance requirements – it’s about safeguarding lives, protecting your fleet, and ensuring the smooth, efficient operation of your vehicles.”
