The driver of a city bus or a coach wants a clear picture of what is happening around the vehicle. This way accidents can be prevented. Classic mirrors have their limitations. Cameras and radar offer greater security. Manufacturer Mekra is taking the lead in the field of visual security for long vehicles such as buses and trucks.
A collision in a blind spot is the major concern of drivers. Unfortunately, an arsenal of classic mirrors is still sometimes not enough to avoid such tragic accidents. Camera technology does allow the non-visible area around the vehicle to be captured.
Many vehicles at Busworld, are meanwhile equipped with the latest security equipment. German manufacturer Mekra offers homologated camera systems that replace the old-fashioned wing mirrors. The company boasts decades of experience in developing systems with camera monitors. 'Camera images offer particularly many advantages over mirrors. 'European regulations allow the switch to cameras but only for certified products,' says Sven Felbinger of Mekra.
'Our digital cameras display a wide view of what is moving in front and to the side of the bus. 'In case the visualisation does go wrong for a moment - which is extremely rare - the screen in the cockpit immediately goes black and the driver knows he needs to pay extra attention,' Felbinger explains. Mekra also developed a radar system for monitoring the blind spot on the right flank. If the driver forgets to use the indicator, an integrated gyroscope registers the lateral movement of the bodywork and the driver hears a warning signal in case of approaching danger.
Other benefits of cameras include better visibility in the dark thanks to bright technology and less vibration. The long arms on which the classic mirrors are attached also restrict space when manoeuvring and are vulnerable in a collision. The large exterior mirrors also require extra attention in the car wash to prevent damage. Cameras, on the other hand, promote vehicle aerodynamics. According to several users, camera monitoring can save 3 to 5 per cent fuel.