Thermal imaging cameras, capable of turning night into day enabling drivers to see four times further, are set to radically
Thermal imaging cameras, capable of turning night into day enabling drivers to see four times further, are set to radically improve safety levels for night time bus and truck drivers and motorists on Australian roads.
The PathFindIR infrared cameras, which register and display heat not light, are
currently widely used by the Australian armed forces and by police for pursuit and surveillance purposes.
Fire fighters use thermal imaging cameras to ‘see’ through smoke.
The same advanced IR technology to enhance night vision and provide an early warning system is now available for heavy vehicle operators to make night driving far less dangerous.
Visual displays mounted inside the vehicle’s cabin producing clear images will enable
drivers at night to spot potential hazards, people, animals or objects up to 880 metres away – normal illuminated night vision on high beam is around 150m and under 100m on low beam.
Thermal imaging will enable drivers to detect and avoid potential hazards in total darkness, smoke, rain, light fog or snow allowing more time to take evasive action.
“For a driver using this system is as easy as checking his mirrors,” says PathFindIR’s
Tony Kelly.
“It becomes second nature very quickly.
“To maximise transport operating efficiencies we are seeing bigger, heavier and more expensive commercial vehicles operating on our major highways and freeways.
“It is essential that these vehicles be made as safe as possible for the sake of the drivers and the motoring public sharing the road. Thermal imaging cameras create the safety buffer that these large vehicles need and it gives drivers peace of mind knowing what’s ahead.
“With the IR technology fitted, drivers can now be aware of potential hazards up ahead far sooner than they ever could with even the very best headlights and extra driving lights fitted,” claims Kelly.