With the MAN SafeStop Assist system, MAN has developed a controlled and phased emergency braking system for situations in which the driver is no longer able to act independently due to medical problems or unforeseen circumstances. Information from various sensors and driver assistance systems is combined to initiate a controlled emergency stop.
MAN won the Busworld Digital Award for “Digitally Enhanced Driving” with its MAN SafeStop Assist system. In emergency situations, driver assistance systems intervene in a controlled manner to gradually bring the bus or coach to a halt. This is done by sophisticatedly combining information from sensors and driver assistance systems and converting it into actual actions.
MAN SafeStop Assist is automatically activated when the driver falls asleep or becomes unwell and, for example, no longer controls the steering wheel. Data from the Adaptive Cruise Control and Lane Guard System is combined with images and radar-based recording of traffic conditions, such as the distance to the vehicle in front.
Warning and phased intervention
In the first phase, the MAN SafeStop Assist system warns the driver by means of a warning symbol and a text message on the dashboard display. Simultaneously, the steering wheel vibrates more actively, prompting the driver to retake control of the steering wheel and correct their course.
If the driver does not respond, the second phase kicks in and the system adds an additional warning signal to the haptic and optical warnings. Gradual partial braking is also applied, increasing in intensity.
And if the driver still doesn't react? Then the third stage kicks in and the MAN SafeStop Assist considers the situation an emergency. The hazard warning lights are activated, the relative speed and distance to the vehicle in front are reduced, the bus is guided back into its lane, the gearbox is shifted into neutral and the electronic parking brake is activated. The doors are opened and the lights are switched on so that passengers can leave the vehicle or emergency services can enter the coach or bus without any problems.
At any stage, the driver can take back control of the steering wheel and regain control of the vehicle.
The MAN SafeStop Assist system is already available for the MAN Lion’s Coach and MAN Lion’s Intercity and will soon also be available for the Neoplan Skyliner and Neoplan Tourliner.