Volvo CE introduce new Collision Mitigation System
New automated braking system for Volvo wheel loaders designed to improve jobsite safety
DELIVERING on their vision for zero accidents, Volvo Construction Equipment (Volvo CE) have launched their new Collision Mitigation System for Volvo wheel loaders – an automatic braking feature that supports operator response and helps reduce the risk or consequences of collision when working in reverse.
The first system of its kind from any original equipment manufacturer (OEM), it assists operators while working in reverse and automatically applies service brakes when the wheel loader approaches any obstacle, alerting the operator to take further action.
With wheel loaders spending an average of 40–50% of their time being driven in reverse, the Collision Mitigation System is a valuable solution for operators and site managers. Whilst not designed to replace safe operator behaviour, it is a smart tool to further enhance jobsite safety.
Lars Eriksson, global product manager for wheel loaders at Volvo CE, said: ‘We continue to proactively develop intelligent solutions which not only mitigate the consequences of accidents, but also strive to avoid them altogether. This new Collision Mitigation System is one important part of our work to reduce the risk of accidents and help fulfil our commitment towards zero accidents.’
The system works by identifying when there is a risk of collision and responding by automatically activating the brakes for 2–3 seconds to slow the machine down prior to impact or bring it to a stop to avoid it. This initiation of the braking alerts the operator to intervene.
And for seamless stockpiling operations, the system will remember the last slope the machine climbed, allowing operators to reverse down a pile without activating it. It can also be temporarily deactivated for specific site conditions.
Functioning only when the wheel loader is in reverse and driving at speeds of between 3–15km/h (1.86–9.32miles/h), no matter what gear it is in, the system serves as a facilitator to jobsite safety.
Developed in-house by Volvo CE, the patent-pending Collision Mitigation System for Volvo wheel loaders is currently available as a factory-fitted option on the L110H/L120H equipped with OptiShift, L150H, L180H, L220H, L260H and L200H High Lift wheel loaders.
Requiring a Radar Detect System to be fitted, it works as an additional system to the existing wide range of features, options, and site services provided by Volvo CE for their line of wheel loaders, all of which have been designed to improve jobsite safety and minimize unplanned interruptions.
