Dr Air-Brake aids braking safety
Doctor Air-Brake’s product portfolio includes a range of safety solutions, including the next-generation Park Brake Warning (PBW) system, designed to help tackle rollaway incidents.
“The PBW Autobrake alerts the driver when the cab access door is opened and the park brake is not applied,” the company explained.
“The system monitors numerous variables which can affect parking safety, such as both driver and passenger doors, the seatbelts, and the seat occupancy pad.”
It features the benefit of a loud voice alert which sounds when a door is opened while the park brake is not applied; and the next-generation product will now automatically apply the park brake.
“Having this superb safety feature fitting to your vehicle will help improve both worker and public safety in preventing a runaway vehicle,” said Doctor Air-Brake.
“It far exceeds the standard OEM warnings and will also help in saving you costs in repairs to the vehicle or even property repairs so you will not have any unwanted insurance costs.”
The company also highlights the advantages of its Reverse Smart product, an advanced automatic controlled reverse braking system said to be especially suitable for 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 the company: “Reverse Smart utilises a highly reliable 77GHz radar system 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 adaptable to various types of vehicles and operational needs, says Doctor Air-Brake, and can be installed on electric heavy goods vehicles, offering the same level of safety without compromising the vehicle’s unique powertrain.
Suitable applications include fire trucks.
“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 can also be deployed on mobile library vehicles.
“These vehicles often park inside shopping malls where pedestrian traffic is high. Reverse Smart ensures safe manoeuvring in these challenging environments.”
