Partners in innovation with Loughborough University.
Central Scanning have been working with Loughborough University’s School of Design and the Creative arts (SDCA) since 2017, which has led to the development of a multi-faceted relationship involving knowledge transfer and research project support. These activities have been fruitful for both organisations.
We were originally approached to aid in their joint project with Transport for London and the UK Department for Transport. The project was to reduce accidents involving pedestrians and cyclists caused by poor visibility of lorry drivers entering London.
Our involvement was to gather accurate 3D scan data of various commercial lorries – particularly the frames of the windscreens, and passenger and driver side windows with our Artec 3D surveying and 3D scanning arm.
This was to allow the researchers at Loughborough to create their simulation of drivers vision from a truck cab, and map out blind spots which reduce the ability of drivers to see pedestrians and cyclists in close proximity to the vehicle.
To further their research, the seating positions inside of the lorry was also a significant factor in the driver’s line of sight and this also needed to 3D scanned. Our scanning arm and handheld Artec scanners were up to this task.
Dr Abby Paterson & Dr Steve Summerskill from Loughborough University said “It has been our pleasure to work with Central Scanning and they are now a trusted partner of our research team. Their ability to consistently provide accurate scanning data that has been correctly aligned and is ready to use has been a great help for our project. Their expertise in 3D scanning is combined with great support in developing the scanning technique which has been invaluable.
It was good for Central Scanning and Loughborough Uni to exchange different opinions and approaches on how to 3D capture these lorries best quickly and accurately. Some of the scanning techniques and methods that were developed – would then be used and referenced in postgraduate teaching also.
The variables of seating position, heights of cyclists, pedestrians and different windows apertures of various lorries were factored in their finalized simulation and lead to the creation of a new direct vision standard for London. This limits access to the capital for the most dangerous Heavy Goods Vehicles (with poor driver visibility of other road users. Lorries adhering to the new standards are allowed into London making it safer for all road users.
Loughborough have now taken this research and are now working with the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe to have a similar standard that will change HGV design across the continent by improving the direct vision of cyclists and pedestrians for truck drivers.
