Is a Forklift Alert System the Same as a Pedestrian Detection System?

We hear lots of different terminologies with this newer technology called a forklift alert system. However, is the forklift alert system the same thing as a pedestrian detection system or a pedestrian proximity sensor? There are lots of ways to describe a forklift safety system. But which one is the best that describes what it is you want and need for your facility? We’ll get into each one including the most common keywords such as the forklift alert systems. Let’s take a closer look.

What Do We Mean by Forklift Alert System?

A forklift alert system is a type of notification. If there is something in the way or potentially close to the lift truck, you want a notification system to let the operator know so action can be taken. In other words, avoid the problem at all costs. What can a forklift alert system do? Most times a forklift alert system will rely on a sensor (usually not a smart sensor) to notice that there is something in the way. When it does, it will sound an alarm notifying the operator to take an action.

What is a Pedestrian Proximity Sensor?

Unlike a forklift alert system, a pedestrian proximity sensor is a bit smarter. The word pedestrian can mean that all the system can detect and identify is a pedestrian, or a human within its path. The technology used can be RFID tags which is technology that needs to be worn by a pedestrian or worker in order to be identified. When the worker wears the RFID tag, the system can then locate where the person is working or walking. The technology is usually located up in the racking systems or on beams and it is constantly looking down searching for a signal that is close by in order to alert the operator if and when a person is in close proximity. 

The RFID system does work, but has its drawbacks. First, the RFID tag must be worn in order for it to work. It is usually not put on a product, pallet or another piece of equipment, so it generally does not address the repair or loss of product as a result of bumping, hitting or scraping another object. In addition, most times the RFID pedestrian proximity sensor is located in high traffic areas leaving the rest of the space at risk.

What is a Pedestrian Detection System?

In many cases, a pedestrian detection system only detects pedestrians and is made for only that task. However, some companies like SIERA.AI uses the term pedestrian detection system as it is one of the most common terms on the Internet when someone is searching for a safety system. However, SIERA.AI goes beyond the pedestrian term. 

When we discuss a pedestrian detection system, we also include objects. That’s because our AI or artificial intelligence based system can identify the difference between a person and an object. It also offers a flexible distance setting. This means that if you want the forklift safety system to identify 5’, 25’ or up to 33’ in a single direction, it can. The flexibility is necessary as everyone is moving products in different sizes, so you may need that extra space. You can begin to get your alarms at the distance you set. However, the alarm will come in a visual and audio alert so you never miss a beat. 

Learn more about these systems and SIERA.AI’s forklift safety system.

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Contact us today at sales@siera.ai or call us at (512) 817 0702.