As tram drivers often experience challenges like commuter traffic or poor visibility, Bosch Engineering has developed Life-saving Advanced Driver Assistance Systems automobile technology, also available for light rail, such as trams. During the American Public Transportation Association #APTAExpo, Nov 8-10, Bosch will showcase the Tram Forward Collision Warning System (TFCW), highlighting the benefits this system provides for cities to help reduce accidents.
In terms of its collision warning system for light rail vehicles, Bosch Engineering relies on components from automotive technology to actively reduce the expensive consequences of accidents or prevent them altogether.
High availability of light rail vehicles
The collision warning system for trams supports drivers in critical situations. When congested traffic or poor visibility conditions occur, the system warns the driver about obstacles on the rails in plenty of time. This lets drivers avoid accidents, or at least significantly limit the effects.
The system consists of a multi-purpose camera, a radar sensor, and a control unit. It monitors the track ahead and any possible obstacles in front of the vehicle in real time. It sends a warning to the driver once it detects a potential collision. Whether the driver responds too late or not at all, the collision warning system can initiate automatic braking.
Detecting critical situations
Life-saving Advanced Driver Assistance Systems’ multi-purpose camera monitors the track ahead and transmits the data in real time to the radar sensor. The radar is independent of weather and light conditions. Its sensor recognizes potential obstacles in front of the vehicle from a distance of up to 80 meters away. Considering the vehicle’s speed, the system uses the information to determine the danger of a collision.
In type 1 of the system, it determines whether the threat, which can be presented by an obstacle that warrants a visual or acoustic warning to the driver. Type 2 of the system sends a signal via relay output to trigger automatic braking, should the driver respond too late or not at all to the system’s warning.
