Tech AI camera system to monitor truck blind spots

A cyclist's nightmare: being in the blind spot of a huge truck turning left.

An AI camera system designed to monitor truck blind spots is attracting attention as efforts to reduce bicycle collisions gain momentum. Interest has grown in recent months, especially after Japan introduced its so-called blue ticket system for cyclists. The system is called A-CAM and is sold by Tokai Clarion, based in Naka Ward, Nagoya. It uses cameras mounted on trucks and buses to monitor areas drivers struggle to see, particularly along the left side of the vehicle. That side has long been a problem point.


When a cyclist or pedestrian approaches, the system detects them using AI. The driver is then alerted with an alarm. At the same time, the object is marked in red on a monitor inside the cab. It is meant to be simple and immediate.

Although the product was launched three years ago, inquiries have increased since late last year, reflecting rising demand for safety measures. Around 100 companies, mainly in the transport sector, have already adopted the system, with many citing the introduction of the blue ticket system as the trigger. Tokai Clarion director Masahiro Nakata said the primary appeal lies in reducing the burden on drivers. "Using this kind of equipment helps ease the strain on drivers, which is what resonates most," Nakata said. A test ride in a truck equipped with the AI camera demonstrated how the system operates, with alert sounds triggered when objects entered the monitored area. Even without pedestrians or cyclists present, the camera reliably detected obstacles and displayed them clearly on the monitor.

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