Linde MH has added an intelligent reversing camera to its already extensive range of safety systems. Developed using AI, it has "learned" to distinguish between people and objects when obstacles appear in the area behind the forklift.
If the Linde Reverse Assist camera detects a person within a defined angle around the camera, a multi-stage warning system is triggered: The driver is alerted to the potential danger both visually via the display and by an audible signal. Additionally, an automatic reduction in driving speed can be activated to further minimize the risk of accidents. "By having the algorithm target only the most critical collisions with people, we prevent drivers from becoming desensitized and eventually immune to the warning signals," says Fabian Zimmermann, Product Manager Safety Solutions at Linde MH. If the number of such warnings needs to be reduced even further, the alarm settings can be limited to cases where the forklift is actually traveling in the direction where people are located.
Photos: Linde MH
As a fully integrated solution for new vehicles or as a retrofit option, the intelligent reversing camera can be used independently or combined with existing Linde assistance and safety systems.
The individually configurable pedestrian detection range of the "Reverse Assist Camera" extends up to 12 meters and can be divided into two warning zones. If the pedestrian is further away, the vehicle's speed is reduced less than if the person is in the narrower zone and therefore closer to the vehicle. On the latest generation of counterbalance forklifts, the camera images are displayed on the optional 7" display in full-screen mode or in split-screen mode. The intelligent camera is fully integrated into these vehicle models. An additional monitor for the reversing camera, which could obstruct the view in this area, is not required.
The Linde Reverse Assist camera can be used as a stand-alone solution. However, since a single safety system is often insufficient to cover the diverse risks in operation, the solution is also compatible with existing Linde safety and assistance systems.
This includes the "Motion Detection" system, which prevents the forklift from starting from a standstill if a person or vehicle is moving behind it. "The Reverse Assist camera and the Safety Guard assistance system also form an ideal combination," says Zimmermann, referring to a customer application. When the forklifts drive from the outdoor area into the darker warehouse, the speed is automatically reduced and the door is opened upon reaching the roller door. A large warning triangle also appears on the floor inside the warehouse to alert pedestrians to the approaching forklift.
