American Freightways tests collision-warning system

By Peter Bradley, Toby Gooley, and James Aaron Cooke -- Logistics Management, 1/1/2000

American Freightways (AF) has begun testing systems that combine radar-based collision avoidance and on-board data recording in some of its trucks. The systems warn a driver when collision conditions exist and record information that can help in the investigation of accidents. AF, which provides less-than-truckload service in 32 states, ordered the $3,000 systems from Eaton Corp.

The carrier already has made investments in other intelligent transportation technology. For example, AF has 400 tractors equipped with Lockheed Martin's "PrePass" transponders. That technology allows automatic identification and weighing in motion of trucks in states that use the technology. AF also has installed radio-frequency transponders on its entire fleet. The transponders are read by equipment at the gates of AF's 238 customer centers, providing real-time information on when equipment arrives and departs. In addition, the carrier is converting its fleet to the use of L.E.D. (light emitting diode) marker lights. The L.E.D. lamps light up faster than conventional light bulbs, giving a following vehicle moving at 60 mph an additional 20 feet in which to react to the trailer's signals, the company says.

Over the next few years, says Carl Thomas, vice president of safety and security, AF expects to implement other technologies, including those involving traffic-lane guidance, rollover warning and control, electronic braking with disc brakes, and driver hours-of-service compliance.

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