Electronic wheel security system to emerge for heavy commercial vehicles17 June 2011

Within the next 18 months, there may well be an a new solution to the intractable problem of ensuring wheel security on HGVs and buses.

Transport Engineer has been told exclusively of a British-designed electronic solution, aimed at hauliers, as well as bus and coach operators, due to be launched within the next 18 months.

It's the brainchild of Tamworth-based J2E (Japan to Europe Consultancy) and safely consultancy Lloyd Morgan Group, plus their joint venture Wheely Safe.

J2E managing director Gary Broadfield explains their proposal as a simple wireless electronic system that detects imminent separation of a wheel from its hub, and warns the driver in real time.

Currently patented and in pre-production, the clever bit will sit on the inside face of each wheel rim, located between two stud holes.

Mounted on a spring-loaded backplate, it will have a tiny battery, electronic detector switch and antenna – rather like the emerging generation of tyre pressure monitoring systems.

Anticipated costs are around £160, including dash-mounted alarm, to protect all the wheels on a 6x2 tractor unit and tri-axial semi-trailer combination.

Broadfield does not suggest the new system should replace good practice, nor that it should be used instead of indicators or locking nuts, but makes the point that, where all else fails, his company's system will alert the driver immediately and potentially prevent disaster.

Author
Brian Tinham

Related Companies
Lloyd Morgan Group Ltd

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