ASABE Technical Library - Abstract

Abstract.

Recent interests in rearward visibility for private, construction, and commercial vehicles; and documentation of rearward run overs involving bystanders outside the field of vision of the operators of vehicles lead to an investigation into the need for enhanced methods of rearward visibility for large, off-highway, agricultural equipment. A review of the literature found limited relevant research and minimal data on incidents involving rearward run overs of bystanders and co-workers. This article reviews the findings regarding the methods identified and tested to collect and analyze rearward visibility data, from the operator’s perspective, on large self-propelled agricultural equipment, including 4-wheel drive tractors, combines, agricultural sprayers, and skid steer loaders. The methods identified, largely drawn from research conducted on private and commercial vehicles, were tested to determine their application in identifying rearward blind spots. These methods are described and the findings from field-testing of specific machines are provided. Recommendations include the need to explore the benefits of establishing an appropriate engineering standard regarding rearward visibility of agricultural equipment with limited rearward vision and the use of rearward alarm systems for warning bystanders of rearward movement.