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Maryland Company Working With Transportation Industry To Improve Road Safety

June 9, 2003
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CTRL Systems, Inc. (Westminster, Maryland) - Since March 2002, CTRL Systems (CTRL) has been working with the FMCSA, NTSB, and several independent associations such as CVSA to examine how ultrasonic technology might play a key role in the reduction of accidents caused by failures in the air brake systems of commercial vehicles. CTRL manufactures a hand-held ultrasonic inspection device, the CTRL UL101, which is currently used by NASA for detection of leaks on the International Space Station and all Shuttles. This same device can also be used for detection of several mechanical and pneumatic problems, including air brake leaks. The CTRL UL101 is particularly useful in locating difficult to find leaks in pressurized systems where overall noise levels prevent audible detection or location.

Upon the suggestion of the FMSCA, inspectors from the Maryland State Police and Transportation Authority performed initial tests last fall to determine whether hand-held ultrasonic detection technology might have practical application for enforcement personnel during roadside commercial vehicle inspections. Inspectors indicated that the technology is useful for detecting inaudible air leaks and for pinpointing leaks they could hear, but were unable to locate.

CTRL Systems is continuing to work with CVSA and the appropriate subcommittees to examine how and where ultrasonic technology could be used to increase safety throughout the commercial vehicle industry. In particular, they are working to define the best fit, whether it is be used as a preventive device used by individual carriers, by personnel at roadside inspection stations, or both. According to Bob Roche, Chief Executive Officer of CTRL, "The integration of this technology will aid both the inspectors and commercial carriers with the earliest warning of pending brake failure, which will help reduce costly, and sometimes fatal, accidents."