Metro News Release
For immediate release: February 6, 2007
Metro Testing New Bus Technology To Reduce Collisions
Metro is now testing a new device that could help Metrobus avoid collisions.
The ultrasonic detection system, called Seymor, has been installed on 50 Metrobuses operating on the Columbia Pike, Richmond Highway Express and the 9S lines. The Seymor system is designed to help bus drivers avoid cars and other objects in their most critical blind spots, along the sides of the buses.
“This is a good way to enhance the safety of our bus system,” said Metro General Manager John Catoe. “We are always seeking new methods for improving safety, and this new technology will strengthen the day-to-day operations of Metrobus.”
Six sensors which are attached to the sides of the buses, emit a high frequency sound wave. The waves bounce off large “hard” objects and echo back to the bus. If another vehicle, or a bicycle gets close, amber warning lights flash on three mounted dashboard displays and an alarm sounds, alerting the driver of the hazard.
According to the manufacturer, New York State-based Clever Devices, Ltd., even though the Seymor system will often detect pedestrians, the system should not be relied upon for that purpose. People are considered “soft” objects and tend to absorb sound energy and may not produce a detectable echo.
Seymor has three basic operating modes. Depending on the speed of the bus and other input signals, Seymor changes to the most useful mode for the operator.
If a bus is stopped or traveling up to 15 miles per hour, Seymor acts as a close maneuvering aid. If an object, such as a car, light post or bicycle, comes within 4 feet of the bus, a warning light flashes slowly. If the object is within 3 feet, it flashes faster, and if the object is within 2 feet, the light gives a continuous warning and an alarm sounds.
At faster speeds, the Seymor system becomes a lane changing aid. At speeds between 15 and 45 miles per hour, the system becomes active when the turn signal is indicating a lane change or merge. In this mode, the sensor range is six feet and only the sensors on the side of the bus in the turning direction are active. Any object detected within the sensing range will produce a solid warning light indication and an audible alarm. At speeds greater than 45 miles per hour, the sensing range is increased to eight feet.
“We hope the Seymor system will prevent collisions and lessen the severity of others,” said Jack Requa, Metro’s Chief Operating Officer for Metrobus.
More than 100 bus operators received training for the new system. “The Seymor system is intended to provide the bus operator with another tool for safe operation, but is not intended to replace the safe driving habits by bus operators,” said Mr. Requa.
The pilot system was developed for transit properties in Pittsburgh, Cleveland and the Utah Transit Systems. The pilot program will conclude in January 2008, and if successful, a decision will be made to retrofit the entire bus fleet, or, to order for all new bus purchases.
Installation cost $3,000 per Metrobus.
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News release issued at 12:00 am, February 6, 2007.