CyberCab System Safety
Each CyberCab PRT vehicle is equipped with advanced safety systems to ensure a safe operating environment. The vehicles are furnished with flashing warning lights, audible signals, (interior and exterior) emergency stop buttons and a contact and non-contact obstacle detection system.
The contact obstacle detection system is a pressure sensitive bumper system. If the bumper is activated a signal is generated which stops the vehicle. The large flexible front bumper doubles as an emergency switch at low speeds. The rear bumper is an integrated design of an energy absorbing construction.
The non-contact Obstacle Detection System (ODS) is a vital safety component. Each vehicle is equipped with short (ultrasonic) and long range (laser) detection systems. The sensors create a sensory shield, serving as a virtual bumper enabling the vehicle to make a controlled stop prior to contact with obstacles. Upon early detection the ‘caution’ signal is activated, allowing the vehicle to gradually reduce speed; as the vehicle approaches the obstacle and reaches a pre-set distance, the ‘stop’ signal is activated, bringing the vehicle to a full stop. When the obstacle is no longer present, the vehicle will automatically resume operation and speed up to the set speed. In the control logic the ODS is an integrated aspect of the normal operations and not an exception handling procedure – ensuring a more comfortable ride experience.
Within 2getthere, the Obstacle Detection System has been determined as a key-component. Hence 2getthere is actively involved in the development of ODS through technological development programs (research projects ‘People Movers op Weg’ and ‘CityMobil’). New technologies and the possibility of sensor-fusion are examined and being developed. 2getthere is moving from obstacle detection to obstacle handling, improving comfort and safety even further.
To ensure the operational safety of every application a FMECA (Failure Mode Effect and Criticality Analysis) is essential. Within this analysis the consequences (and their severity) of a break-down or failure of components is examined. The FMECA should not be limited to the vehicle, but also incorporate the supervisory system and the infrastructure (interfaces). The analysis is performed by the independent agency TNO (the Dutch Organization for Applied Scientific Research) and a main element in the certification of the system.