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This paper focuses on two types of electronics-based object detection systems for heavy truck applications: those sensing the presence of objects to the rear of the vehicle, and those sensing the presence of objects on the right side of the vehicle. The rearward sensing systems are intended to aid drivers when backing their vehicles, typically at very low “crawl” speeds. Six rear object detection systems that were commercially available at the time that this study was initiated were evaluated. The right side looking systems are intended primarily as supplements to side view mirror systems and as an aid for detecting the presence of adjacent vehicles when making lane changes or merging maneuvers. Four side systems, two commercially available systems and two prototypes, were evaluated.

This paper serves as the seventh report in a series of reports on NHTSA's Heavy Vehicle Brake Research Program and deals with the subject of tractor and trailer brake system compatibility. It provides a detailed definition of compatibility, discusses the factors that influence it and presents data and analyses which indicate the degree of compatibility in the heavy duty combination vehicle fleet at large. The paper suggests ways in which compatibility can be improved so that combination vehicle brake systems will be more durable and provide an enhanced level of safety.