Sideguard Assist On More Than 250 German Buses

Source: Daimler announcement

STUTTGART/NEU-ULM, Germany – More than 250 Sideguard Assist systems have been fitted to Daimler Buses (Mercedes-Benz and Setra brands) in Germany by Omnibus.

Turning maneuvers to the right in city traffic are among the most difficult tasks for a bus driver. Not only do they have to observe traffic lights, signs, oncoming and crossing traffic all at the same time, but they also must keep an eye on any pedestrians and cyclists. When turning, Sideguard Assist warns the bus driver of moving objects on the door side, protecting pedestrians and cyclists.

At the heart of the system is a short-range radar sensor. It is fitted directly behind the front axle and monitors a zone up to three meters wide alongside the bus. When the vehicle is stationary, the assistance system covers a length of eight meters, and when moving, even a distance of twelve meters, including a strip to the side in front of the vehicle. Thus, the entire area where cyclists and pedestrians are at risk when the bus starts to turn is covered. The radar sensor monitors several stationary and moving objects simultaneously.

The retrofitted Sideguard Assist functions up to a speed of 30 km/h and operates in multiple stages: if a moving object is in the monitored zone along the side of the bus, the driver is informed visually in a fraction of a second.

A yellow LED lamp lights up at eye level on the A-pillar on the door side. It intuitively directs the driver’s attention to the situation next to their vehicle. If the turn signal to turn right is activated, the LED lamp lights up red and a warning tone is issued.

Sideguard Assist is activated automatically when the ignition is switched on and cannot be deactivated. Its robust radar technology is not influenced by environmental factors such as rain, fog, snow, light reflexes, or dirt – as opposed to other technologies – and functions around the clock, day and night. The components used are extremely durable.

Sideguard Assist is available for all solo and articulated buses from Mercedes-Benz (except minibuses) and Setra with CAN bus and FMS interface. This includes all the current and predecessor models going back to at least 2010. As the system by far exceeds legal requirements, it is also eligible for subsidies. Safety when turning has never been so attractive.