The Swedish firm developed the C-me vest, a garment focused on operator safety, which has automatic lighting when it leaves the cabin.
Through a sensor, it detects if the driver is inactive after a quick involuntary movement such as a fall. This activates the connected application to allow the operator to send a text alert to a pre-set emergency number while transmitting the GPS position.
The Android application, called Sense, can also display user data, such as the battery status, the number of times it has been entered and left the cabin, and other relevant information. With the mobile connection software of the safety vest can be updated wirelessly.
To date, the manufacturer carries out the final verification tests, so that from the summer of 2019, this vest will be available at Scania dealers in Europe.
This initiative arose as a result of the risks involved in the operation of heavy vehicles, because in addition to driving, drivers have many other tasks to do: loading and unloading vehicles, coupling and uncoupling trailers, checking and ensuring that the Cargo is properly insured, check and maintain your vehicles before starting your next trip.
In Europe, transport and storage are the third most common work activity in fatal accidents. A Danish study confirms that falls from heights that cause fractures among truck drivers are common. The analyses show that it is common for operators to fall from the cabin of the unit due to loss of balance or to get off on the wrong foot.
The vest with reflective tape is reversible with one side illuminated high visibility while the other is a more neutral gray to use when you do not work on the truck. Even without these lighting features, it complies with all established European Class 2 legal requirements for your protective clothing.
The developers have not overlooked any aspect of making this an innovative wearable device connected, including the fact that the vest with reflective material is washable when removing the electronic components from the collar.
“We see that the vest can improve safety not only for truck drivers but also in many other vulnerable occupations,” said Jonas Svanholm, Director, X-Lab, Scania Connected Services, and Solutions.