Scania is another company that wants to replace standard rear-view mirrors in their trucks with cameras. The Swedish concern wants to create the most accurate camera on the market. What can we expect?
Many trucks manufacturers say that rear-view mirrors ar an unnecessary part. Why? Because technology gives the ability to replace them. The manufacturers have to install them in vehicles due to legal regulations. The law requires the components such as wing mirrors, gas pedals or brakes to be assembled in cars. However, technology has moved forward and companies are trying to implement new ideas. One of the first attempts to replace the mirrors with cameras was implementing the Corner Eye system, which provided high image resolution and the field of view up to 270 degrees.
Scania’s offer
Currently Scania is closely cooperating with Stoneridge Electronics. The product of this cooperation will be a camera with the following advantages (in contrast to usual rear-view mirrors):
– much larger image range
– aerodynamic benefits i.e. improving the performance of cars and reducing fuel consumption,
– optional night mode,
– greater independence from weather conditions,
– small sizes (which allows for eliminating dirt),
– solving the problem of dirty wing mirrors.
It is not known yet if and when the cameras designed for Swedish trucks will be approved for use.
Cameras and „the blind spot”
Supporters of assembling the cameras in trucks also argument that these devices may help increase safety on roads. Consequently, they can reduce or completely eliminate the so called „blind spot”. To eliminate this problem so far the manufacturers have been producing mirrors with slightly convex corners and sensors designed to monitor the area. Technology using cameras may be the solution to this situation.
Photo: flickr.com