- Natalie Hellman
- Arash Yousefzadeh
- Calvin Mooz
- Davis Landry
- Olivia Filkoski
Sponsored by Trimble Inc.
With the advent of automated steering systems vehicle operators are freed to give attention to tasks other than steering while in the vehicle cab. However, it has also provided the ability for the operators to leave the cab and wander outside the vehicle while it is in motion. The seat switch present in most vehicles is easily bypassed and thus, the safety of the operator is put at risk. The Operator Presence System (OPS) ensures the operator is not only present in the seat but also actively driving the vehicle.
The OPS keeps vehicle operators safe by ensuring that they are present and alert in autonomous steering vehicles. The system includes a sensor that monitors whether the operator of the autonomous vehicle is present in the seat and actively driving the vehicle. The system is powered through a USB interface, which also communicates information back to the Trimble GFX-750.
Farmers operating automatic tractors must be present and active in case something unforeseen happens. The OPS not only ensures the drivers safety but also those that could be nearby. Additionally, this helps save money in property damage from operators falling asleep and driving the tractor into a building. The two main features of the OPS are to ensure that the operator is in the vehicle’s driver seat and that the driver is present and actively engaged with operating the vehicle.