From advanced camera systems and automatic traction control to collision mitigation and real-time tire monitoring, today’s wheel loaders are equipped with more safety tech than ever before. Eric Yeomans, product manager for large wheel loaders at Volvo Construction Equipment, shares insights on recent advancements and what’s on the horizon.
P&Q: What sorts of safety systems and technologies are now considered standard in modern wheel loaders?
YEOMANS: Today, safety features like three-point seat belts, warning lights and alarms, high-definition cameras and rollover and falling-object protection are often standard. And a comfortable, ergonomically designed cab means a more focused operator, which can also enhance safety.
There are features that are increasingly becoming standard for some OEMs or certain models but still in progress for others. Things like:
- Automatic traction control that engages the front axle differential lock when wheel slip is detected
- The ability to tilt the cab for safer service access
- An automatic work light under the grill for better visibility during service
- A service platform with harness anchor points to prevent falls
- Brake wear indicators on the wheels to ensure the machine’s braking system is performing as expected
- A battery disconnect switch with lockout-tagout functionality for safer maintenance
- A flashing beacon inside the grill to indicate reversing
And while it’s often viewed as a performance and efficiency feature, a tire pressure monitoring system supports safety because the operator can easily check the condition of their tires from the cab. This is crucial for spotting potential tire issues, especially when moving heavy loads.
With real-time information on both tire pressure and temperature, an operator can make sure tires are always operating within the correct parameters. If there’s an issue, the operator gets an immediate alert and a clear visual display showing which tire needs attention. This proactive approach can help prevent incidents before they happen.
P&Q: What emerging or next-gen safety technologies are manufacturers exploring to further reduce risk related to wheel loaders?
YEOMANS: At Volvo, we take safety very seriously and are always incorporating customer feedback and the latest technology to make our wheel loaders safer. Operators have a lot to keep track of: remaining aware of their surroundings to avoid accidents and prevent damage while still getting work done. That’s where technology can make a big difference.
A system that provides a 360-degree view – like Volvo Smart View with Obstacle Detection – is a big help. If it can distinguish between objects or humans, that’s even better.
Volvo Smart View with Obstacle Detection provides a real-time view and automatic alerts on a high-resolution monitor so the operator has all the info they need to react accordingly. We used deep learning technology to develop this solution, so it can even detect someone crouching, moving or leaning, and it doesn’t matter what color clothes they are wearing.
A collision mitigation system is another emerging loader safety feature. Volvo’s optional system, for example, alerts the operator to obstacles when reversing from speeds as low as 0.3 mph.
The system will brake immediately when the machine starts reversing from standstill if there is a wall or object inside the radar range, and the operator will see a green icon that indicates an obstacle. About 50 percent of accidents involve stationary machines, so this technology can make a huge difference.
