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Source- This post on Collision Avoidance System (CAS) has been created based on the article “Tech that keeps vehicles from bumping into each other” published in “The Hindu” on 13 August 2024.
Why in News?
Vehicular traffic is integral to modern life. With increasing demand and complexity, collision avoidance systems are essential for ensuring safety.
About Collision Avoidance System (CAS)
| Aspects | Description |
| About | A Collision Avoidance System (CAS) is a safety technology designed to prevent or reduce the severity of collisions in vehicles, aircraft, ships, and other modes of transportation. |
| Key Components | 1. Sensors and Detection: CAS relies on a variety of sensors such as radar, lidar, ultrasonic sensors, and cameras to detect obstacles or other vehicles around the vehicle or aircraft. 2. Processing Unit: The data from the sensors is processed by an onboard computer, which assesses the risk of collision by analyzing the speed, distance, and trajectory of the detected objects. 3. Warning System: If the system determines that a collision is imminent, it alerts the driver or pilot through audible alarms, visual warnings, or haptic feedback (like vibrating the steering wheel or seat). 4. Automatic Action: In advanced CAS, if the driver or pilot does not respond to the warnings, the system can take automatic actions such as applying the brakes, steering away from the obstacle, or adjusting speed to avoid a collision. |
| Types of CAS | 1. Automotive CAS: It involves forward Collision Warning (FCW), Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB), Lane Departure Warning (LDW) and blind Spot Detection (BSD). 2. Aviation CAS: It includes Traffic Collision Avoidance System (TCAS) and Ground Proximity Warning System (GPWS). 3. Marine CAS: It includes automatic Radar Plotting Aid (ARPA) which helps in detecting and tracking other vessels to avoid collisions at sea. |
| Benefits | 1. Enhanced Safety: CAS significantly reduces the likelihood of accidents by providing early warnings and automatic interventions. 2. Driver/Pilot Assistance: It aids in situations where human reaction time may be insufficient. 3. Insurance and Liability: Vehicles and aircraft equipped with CAS may benefit from lower insurance premiums due to reduced risk. |
| Challenges | 1. Sensor Limitations: The effectiveness of CAS can be hindered by poor weather conditions, sensor malfunction, or false positives. 2. Driver/Pilot Over-reliance: There is a risk that drivers or pilots may become too dependent on the system and not remain vigilant. |
| Future development | Integration with Autonomous Systems: CAS is an essential component of fully autonomous vehicles, where collision avoidance will be entirely managed by the vehicle’s systems. Improved Algorithms: Ongoing advancements in machine learning and AI are expected to enhance the accuracy and reliability of CAS. |
UPSC Syllabus: Science and technology
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