For operators of heavy machinery such as dozers and excavators, maintaining complete situational awareness is a constant challenge. A moment of lost concentration or a misjudgement of distance can lead to catastrophic rollovers or falls.
Probe IMT is enhancing vehicle safety across Southern Africa’s mining and construction sectors with the implementation of Wabtec’s EDGEYE AI Smart Cameras. This advanced system provides a sophisticated operator support tool designed to significantly reduce vehicle interaction risk and help sites achieve their zero-harm goals.
The EDGEYE system addresses one of the most hazardous aspects of surface mining: operating heavy machinery like dozers and excavators near voids, edges, and berms. By using stereoscopic 3D imaging and depth mapping, the cameras deliver a full 360° view around dozers and excavators, actively detecting drop-offs, and monitoring the machine’s roll angle to prevent rollovers. This proactive approach to hazard detection marks a substantial improvement over traditional passive camera systems.
Marko Kotze, CTO of Probe IMT, highlighted the system’s impact on operator awareness and confidence. “To truly enhance safety, technology needs to move from being a reactive tool to a proactive partner. It must be able to see, interpret, and alert operators to dangers before they become critical.”
Kotze says that Wabtec’s EDGEYE AI smart cameras are making a life-saving difference. “These cameras provide an operator support system that reduces the likelihood of accidents related to edges and voids, safeguarding both personnel and expensive equipment. Reduced downtime from incidents also leads to significant cost savings and improved project timelines.”
Key features of EDGEYE AI smart cameras
What sets EDGEYE apart is its suite of integrated features designed for the harsh realities of mining. These include:
360° edge, void, and roll-angle detection: Using stereoscopic imaging (3D) and depth mapping, EDGEYE creates a real-time depth map of the area surrounding the vehicle. This allows its algorithms to accurately identify hazardous drop-offs, voids, and unstable edges. The system offers a full 360° view, eliminating dangerous blind spots and giving the operator a comprehensive understanding of their environment. It also monitors the machine’s roll angle, providing critical warnings if the vehicle approaches a dangerous tilt.
Real-time voice and visual alerts: When EDGEYE identifies a potential hazard, it communicates it instantly. The system delivers clear, customisable voice and visual alerts inside the cab. These alerts are designed to be easily understood without distracting the operator. This real-time feedback loop allows for immediate corrective action, turning a potential incident into a prevented one. With low false alarm rates, operator acceptance is swift, ensuring that alerts are taken seriously.
Superior performance in all conditions: The system is equipped with powerful IR illuminators for effective night-time vision, ensuring reliable performance 24/7. Whether in complete darkness, heavy dust, or adverse weather, the cameras provide a clear view, maintaining a consistent level of safety around the clock.
Optional fatigue and behaviour monitoring: Human factors remain a leading cause of incidents. The optional NEXEYE module adds another layer of safety by monitoring the operator for signs of fatigue and distraction. It can detect drowsiness or if the operator’s attention has shifted away from the task at hand. This feature also monitors for harsh acceleration, cornering, and speeding, helping to manage significant risks on any site and improve operational requirements.
The capabilities of the EDGEYE system extend beyond the vehicle itself, says Kotze. Each camera can record over 100 hours of continuous footage, and this data can be integrated with remote monitoring platforms. This provides managers and safety teams with powerful analytical tools. “This continuous flow of data transforms safety management from a reactive process into a data-driven, predictive strategy,” explains Kotze.
“A safer working environment is a more productive one,” says Kotze. “Operators who feel secure and supported by reliable technology can perform their duties with greater efficiency and precision. By empowering operators and providing management with actionable insights through remote monitoring capabilities, EDGEYE helps foster a powerful safety culture that benefits the entire operation.”
