Press Invitation: VUB Research Saves Lives on the Road with Innovative Blind Spot Sensors
The number of fatal accidents involving vulnerable road users in Flanders increased by 10% in 2023 compared to the previous year. Ninety-six victims lost their lives, marking the highest figure ever recorded. A significant cause is the rising number of blind spot accidents involving trucks. Safer vehicles are crucial to reversing this alarming trend. In response to this issue, eXia, a spin-off of the Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB) and Imec, developed the Active Sideguard blind spot sensors for trucks. It is the world’s first warning system that utilizes low-frequency electric fields. On May 2, 2024, the Vrije Universiteit Brussel will present these innovative blind spot sensors.
Speakers Bart Truyen (Managing Director of eXia and VUB researcher), VUB Vice Rector-elect Peter Schelkens, and Flemish Minister of Mobility and Public Works Lydia Peeters will discuss the research and the importance of the Active Sideguard blind spot sensors. The functionality of the sensors will be demonstrated through a live demonstration involving a truck and a cyclist.
Practical Information
Where? Braem Building, VUB Campus, Pleinlaan 2, 1050 Elsene (opposite entrance 11)
When? May 2, 2024
Program
- 10:00 AM: Welcome
- 10:15 AM: Opening speech by Vice Rector-elect Peter Schelkens
- 10:20 AM: Speech by Minister Lydia Peeters
- 10:25 AM: Presentation of the Active Sideguard sensor research by Bart Truyen
- 10:45 AM: Demonstration with truck and cyclist + opportunity for interviews
- 12:00 PM: Reception
We warmly invite the press to attend this event. Would you like to join us? Please confirm your attendance by April 29 via Leen.Vandevelde2@vub.be.
