The Control Truck (ConTruck) driver assistance system is designed to monitor lorry parameters such as distributed load, acceleration, braking force, and mechanical integrity. Its development by the Israeli company Safe Traffic Limited is nearly complete, and it will monitor and control lorry loads. This article describes how it works, and discusses its implications for the future safety of the road haulage industry and road users. ConTruck uses a set of sensors and smart algorithms to analyse data and compute various lorry parameters relevant to the lorry's current safety status. The results of the analysis are displayed to the driver clearly and comprehensively, and provide audible and visual warnings in time for appropriate precautions to be taken. The load information enables drivers to optimise work days, prevent speed or weight offences, save time, and remain on schedule; it is especially useful for vehicle fleet management. For example, the system can identify whether the actual braking distance is within the lorry's safe operational boundaries, and calculate the probability of vehicle rollover. The Contruck system has a main control unit, sensor control units, and simple cable connections between these units; its simple installation requires no modifications to the lorry's frame or body.
Samenvatting