SAKAI photo

Echelon Mode enhances the safety and efficiency of tandem asphalt rolling operations.

SAKAI America announced the release of its new Echelon Mode for the Guardman Automatic Brake Assist System.

This feature, developed in response to customer feedback, enhances the safety and efficiency of tandem asphalt rolling operations.

Guardman uses millimeter-wave radar or 3D LiDAR (depending on the model) to detect potential collisions with personnel or equipment, warn the operator progressively and automatically brake to prevent accidents if needed. The new Echelon Mode builds upon this foundation by specifically addressing the unique challenges of echelon rolling, a common technique used in highway-class paving, according to SAKAI.

"We listened to highway contractors who expressed the need for a solution that would allow for closer, more efficient tandem rolling while still allowing the benefits of Guardman's automatic braking if necessary," said Brad Belvin, manager of sales and marketing. "Echelon Mode is the result of that feedback, and we're proud to offer this advancement to the industry."

Echelon Mode allows two SAKAI SW884 (79 in.) or SW994 (84 in.) asphalt rollers, equipped with Guardman, to operate in proximity without generating false alarms but still protecting against collisions. The system intelligently monitors distance to the lead roller, ensuring that both operator warning and braking is only initiated when an imminent collision risk is detected, according to SAKAI.

According to SAKAI, some key features of Echelon Mode include:

• Optimized Tandem Rolling: Enables closer, more efficient echelon formation.

• Reduced False Alarms: Minimizes unnecessary braking interruptions.

• Enhanced Safety: Maintains the core Guardman functionality, providing reliable collision prevention.

• Proximity Indicator: Provides operators with real-time feedback on the distance between rollers, allowing for proactive adjustments and preventing unwanted braking.

• Easy Activation: Echelon Mode can be toggled on and off via the Guardman display screen with one button press.

"Safety is our top priority at SAKAI America," added Kevin McClain, vice president of operations. "Echelon Mode is a testament to our commitment to continuous improvement and our dedication to providing our customers with the most trustworthy compaction equipment."

The Echelon Mode update is now available for SAKAI SW884 and SW994 asphalt rollers equipped with the Guardman automatic emergency braking system.

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