Testing of an upcoming product took place yesterday (May 27th, 2013) at Norcat’s Underground Training and Technology Testing Centre in Onaping Falls, Ontario. In the near future Hard-Line will be offering a proximity detection system which is designed to complement the safety procedures and regulations already in place at the work site. The system consists of 2 zones used to warn the operator of varying levels of danger. The zones can be changed to accommodate machines of varying sizes and shapes.

Zone1 Of The Proximity Detection System

Zone 1 is considered a hazard or no-go zone. The system can be configured to either stop the machine by applying the service and park brakes while locking out all functions or shutting down the machine completely. In both instances the operator will have to leave the zone and cycle the unit before being able to move the machine.

Zone 2 Of The Proximity Detection System

Zone 2 is considered a warning zone. In zone 2 (warning) the system is configured to deliver both audible and visual warnings that the operator is getting to close to the machine. These warnings will only stop when the operator has removed himself from the warning zone.