Introduction:
It is not an exaggeration to say that damage comes in many shapes and forms. When it comes to mining, damage does not necessarily hit in the form of an explosion. For the sake of brevity, we’ll limit ourselves to the circumstances that cause a person or an object to collide with the obstacles in the way.
In these scenarios, aftermarket collision avoidance systems come into play. These help drivers avoid accidents in real time by issuing warnings. Besides that, aftermarket collision avoidance systems have the ability to reduce costs and downtime using these real time alerts.
Aftermarket Vs. OME Systems | Which is Preferable For Mine Vehicles?
When it comes to collision avoidance systems, the customers choose from two general categories. One of them is an OME system, and the other one is an aftermarket product. Both of these have their own pros and cons.
OEM Collision Avoidance System
If we talk about OEM systems or factory installed products, these come pre-equipped in the vehicle. That means the user won’t have to deal with the fuss of installing the system all over again. Moreover, some service providers supply brand-new OEM systems. These do not come pre-installed but require an extra installation fee of worker assistance.
When we compare the price of these two categories, a huge difference is seen. Aftermarket collision avoidance systems are much cheaper compared to OEM systems. As a result, it makes the product highly sustainable and user-friendly in terms of economy.
Another plus point for OEM systems is their value yielding authority. These products are highly credible because their source is a well-known original manufacturer.
Aftermarket Collision Avoidance System
Third-party companies create aftermarket systems and typically have a cheaper price tag. Also, their parts quality is similar to OEM systems. These systems often offer more safety benefits than OEM systems but needs installation.
The Takeaway
The debate between aftermarket and OEM systems is a topic that has been hotly contested over the years. When it comes to mining vehicles, the choice between aftermarket and OEM systems can be a difficult one. The main factors in this decision are whether you want to save money or get the best possible performance. In order to make an informed decision, you need to understand what these terms mean and what they mean for your vehicle.
Whether you’re a professional miner or someone who simply wants to save money, a good aftermarket system can help you achieve your goals. In comparison, OEM systems are usually more expensive and may not have the needed features.
Aftermarket collision avoidance systems are the most commonly used systems in the mining industry. The major reason is that they are easy to install and maintain. These systems have been designed with practicality and are easy to use by anyone with some basic knowledge of car repairs.
OME systems, on the other hand, are more complex than aftermarket systems and require professional help to be installed correctly. They can also be expensive and require special tools that are not readily available at your local auto parts store.
Primary Functions Of Aftermarket Collision Avoidance system In Surface Mining Operations
The primary function of an aftermarket collision avoidance system is to identify potential threats. As for its general principle, it alerts drivers before they enter into dangerous situations. The system also determines whether or not the threat poses a risk. As a result, it sends that information to the drivers so they can take appropriate action. The information transmission is usually in the form of an audible or visual warning when the driver approaches these threats.
Furthermore, the system allows for the safe movement of equipment, vehicles, and people through mine tunnels. Without this system, mines would be dangerous and difficult to operate. The two basic car safety features of the aftermarket collision avoidance system are as follows:
● Obstacle Detection:
Heavy-duty vehicles used in mining are too difficult to operate. Their bigger size and huge form factor make it impossible for the driver to have a 360-degree view. However, with the aftermarket system in hand, things take a turn. This system has special collision avoidance radars emitting microwaves that create a signal range around the vehicle. In case of disruption by any obstacle, the system alerts the drivers using several methods.
One of these methods involves a light or indicator that flashes at the time of detection. In contrast, the other one is a buzzer making a repetitive sound of beeps. Witnessing these warnings, the driver becomes much more cautious of the surroundings and acts accordingly.
● Collision Avoidance By Focusing Specific Regions
There is no doubt that mining vehicles have danger all around them. But there are some areas that need special attention. The frontal portion of the vehicle is one of them. Anything right in front of the vehicle is totally hidden from the driver’s sight. So, the driver needs some additional assistance to prevent unintentional collisions. An aftermarket collision avoidance system serves as that ideal assistance.
Mainly, collision avoidance systems focus on frontal collision avoidance algorithms to detect and alarm drivers about obstacles in front. The general principle for warning is the same as obstacle detection. However, the detection algorithm is specifically oriented to detect stationary obstacles and pedestrians.
Latest Trends Of Aftermarket CAS – Making It Ideal For Mining Safety
Mining safety is a serious concern for mining companies, but that doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice your safety.
With the latest car safety technologies in aftermarket collision avoidance systems, you can feel confident about your equipment’s ability to protect you and your workers from harm. These systems are effective in preventing accidents and saving lives by making it easier for workers to move around the mine safely.
Traditionally, the products used radio waves or ultrasonic signals that weren’t much beneficial. However, with the use of millimeter microwave radars, the problems of false detection are no more.
The best after-market crash avoidance system for cars uses these sensors to detect objects around the machine. Next, it warns the operator of the impending collision. Thus, it gives the driver enough time to respond. As a result, it prevents accidents and injuries due to collisions between mine vehicles.
Another plus point that has made the aftermarket collision avoidance system a universal product is its flexibility. Nowadays, many different types of collision avoidance systems are available on the market. These systems are easy to install and do not require any maintenance at all. Plus, they can even be adjusted according to your needs, so you don’t have to spend money on repairs every time something goes wrong with your equipment.
Back in the start, aftermarket collision avoidance systems weren’t very accurate. Sometimes, drivers had to face a number of problems due to detection failure and false alarms. However, with the latest innovations, these car safety systems have become much more accurate in terms of detection and warning. Therefore, we say the current trend of collision avoidance systems is due to their ability to render safe and efficient movement in the workplace.
Which Mine Cars Must Have An Aftermarket CAS Installed?
The answer to this question is pretty basic. Every car that the driver is involved in mining operations has to face a certain level of risk. That is why any vehicle with risk on the hood must have an aftermarket collision avoidance system installed.
You may wonder how it is possible to assess which car is at risk. There isn’t a single car on the road or the mining ground that does not have to face a risk. However, there are some that face high levels of threats. So, you must install the system on those. These include:
- SUVs
- Pickup Trucks
- Transport Cranes
- Surface drilling machinery
Besides these vehicles, any automobile having direct contact with mining operations must have the system installed. Remember, every vehicle cannot use the same aftermarket collision avoidance system. On the contrary, each vehicle needs a different type of system with different ranges and features.
That is because each vehicle has different requirements and features that can impact its ability to operate safely with the aftermarket CAS. For example, some vehicles have more difficult-to-access engine parts than others, making installing the aftermarket collision avoidance system more difficult. In addition, some vehicles are made with lighter materials than others, which means they might need to be able to support the weight of the aftermarket communication system without causing damage or failure.
If you’re interested in finding out whether or not your vehicle will work with an aftermarket communications system or if you’d like help determining which model might be right for your needs, contact us! We’ll help you with all your queries.
Overall Cost For Installing An Aftermarket CAS In Mine Vehicles
The overall cost of installing an aftermarket CAS in mine vehicles depends on where you are located and if there are any other costs involved. Also, the cost of installing an aftermarket CAS in your mine vehicle can vary depending on the model of your mine vehicle.
The average cost of aftermarket collision avoidance system integration ranges from $500 to $1000. The cost may vary according to the vehicle’s state or the quality of CAS.
Conclusion:
In the next years we can expect a significant development in the application of car collision avoidance systems in mining. As mining industry cannot afford to spend money on expensive machines, companies are looking for standardized products.
Though not a huge business sector in itself, the aftermarket collision systems for mining vehicles will definitely tighten the market. Road safety is one of the main priorities for mine operators and governments. In recognition of this, many governments have taken steps to introduce strict new laws governing the safe operation of vehicles.
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