The forklift assisted driving and safety system combines the information from sensors and cameras, and uses the function based on artificial intelligence to evaluate it, so as to reduce the logistics risk.
Intelligent assistance and safety system can reduce the risk of accidents of material handling equipment in logistics center
There are statistics from the global internal logistics. There are millions of accidents related to forklifts and material handling equipment every year. As far as forklifts are concerned, there are endless news of property and driver casualties caused by accidents. Enterprises mainly understand the most common causes of accidents and urgently need to understand the obvious benefits of intelligent material handling in the future. The following article shows how forklift assisted driving and safety systems combine information from sensors and cameras and are evaluated through artificial intelligence based functions in order to reduce logistics risks.
Forklifts are a source of danger
Therefore, there are considerable risks in the operation of forklift, from serious injuries, such as limbs, to fatal accidents. Accident analysis shows that the so-called "start-up accident" is a focus. In 44% of the cases investigated, the forklift hit a second person, crushed them and even rolled over them. In addition to personal injury, material damage also occurs from time to time when various material handling vehicles are used. In the narrow aisle, forward or even reverse manipulation and transportation of large or heavy objects, such as from high-rise warehouses, time pressure and cooperation with other workers or forklifts in the same warehouse, bring many dangers, and repeatedly lead to damage or even loss of goods.
Limited visibility, lack of qualification and distraction are the causes of the accident
One of the main reasons for forklift accidents is the limited vision of drivers. Depending on the direction of the line of sight, the line of sight is often blocked by the cab and the gantry. However, the biggest restriction on sight is caused by the goods carried, because the lane will be blocked for several meters according to its size. Special attention must be paid to reversing forklifts. Due to the shoulder view, forklift drivers can only see the back half of the lane. Although the forklift design and vehicle rearview mirror are becoming more and more advanced, the "blind spot" can not be completely avoided. Individuals near the forklift can identify themselves in case of doubt and be careful not to enter the driving or handling area of the vehicle, as long as they are aware of the danger. This is not possible when there are objects or space obstacles. In this regard, eliminating blind spots can greatly promote the safety of forklifts, goods and personnel. This problem belongs to the technical factor of accident prevention.
Human factors
Another cause of personal injury or property damage related to forklifts is the so-called human factor. Driver distraction or fatigue are also common causes of accidents. Working in storage rooms with sometimes insufficient light, narrow aisles, high temperature or extreme cold makes the work of the operator more difficult. When attention drops, even a glance at a smartphone or a chat with a colleague can lead to an accident.
The third hazard source is the operation of forklifts and technical equipment by unqualified employees. Strict safety regulations now require companies to ensure that all drivers have the necessary licenses or certificates to operate highly demanding and potentially dangerous equipment safely and on schedule.
Improve safety systems and reduce hazards
The modern auxiliary and safety system of forklift can greatly reduce the accident risk in logistics and warehouse environment. The system can also be modified to provide various hardware and software components to support personnel. Advanced solutions combine data from different systems to improve security through redundant information. Today, with the help of algorithms supported by artificial intelligence, the evaluation of data has been used in such assistance systems. The most important components of this security system include.
The function of the camera system is that as an additional pair of eyes, it is best to realize 360 ° all-round observation. For example, for this purpose, up to four "field of view" (FOV) 190 ° cameras can be used to work together in a look around system (SVS). The 360 ° panoramic video stream generated in this way can then be transmitted directly to the high-resolution screen.
In terms of sensors, DMOD sensors (dynamic moving object detection) at the front and rear have proved their value. For example, ultrasonic proximity sensors and millimeter wave short-range radar sensors can be used to monitor the surrounding environment. With the DMOD support of the front and rear cameras, the system can alert when a potential security threat is detected, such as the accidental approach of another vehicle or person nearby. This gives the operator time to take appropriate actions to prevent accidents.
The driver monitoring system, using a 60 ° FOV camera with infrared function, can detect operator fatigue, distraction and dangerous behavior, and provide a warning message to redirect attention to control. Similar to the situation in trucks or private cars, this AI driven system can detect, for example, drivers yawning, drowsiness, face deviation or eye closure.
By using face recognition technology, the authorized driver can be identified through the driver recognition function to prevent unauthorized personnel from operating the vehicle. As part of the compliance regulations, this ensures that only properly certified drivers assigned to these tasks can operate forklifts, etc.
When the alarm is transmitted through the CAN bus, the signal can be accelerated unintentionally or when the alarm is too tight.
Sensors on the seat belt buckle provide additional support for driver protection.
Business efficiency improvement
A series of functions of forklift auxiliary driving and safety system can reduce the risk of accidents for staff and the damage of goods and equipment. In addition, this system also helps to improve operational efficiency. When installing safety kits for forklifts, there are several key criteria: first, you must check which components and functions the solution provides. Another key point is the interaction or integration of components, or whether there is AI function support. Third, ensure that the calibration of cameras and other components is also supported by appropriate tools to facilitate the setting of the system.
