The Chek-Way Eliminator system, which monitors truck suspensions, has been recognised for its potential on the ABC-TV show ‘The New Inventors’.
Designed by Queensland engineer Roger Sack, the Chek-Way Eliminator system was announced as the invention of the week.
The system works by using Air Pressure Transducers (APTs) connected to truck suspensions to measure their load weight, load distribution and suspension condition. This not only ensures the truck is in full compliance of the law, but can also reduce the damage the truck causes to the road.
But the system has another benefit: it has the ability to record the existing damage to the road. By measuring the G-forces placed on the suspension, any significant road damage is recorded, and through the use of GPS reported to the relevant road authority.
ATA General Council owner/driver representative Rod Hannifey has the Chek-Way System installed on his Truckright Industry Vehicle and said it has benefits for both the trucking industry and governments.
“In simple terms, the device constantly monitors my load distribution and suspension condition, which saves money by preventing damage and ensuring the truck remains on the road,” Rod said.
“To operate under HML we have to regularly check our suspension to ensure it is road-friendly. This system can tell us exactly how the suspension is performing, and when it needs to be replaced.”
According to Rod, the system’s ability to report dangerous road hazards to authorities could change how the trucking industry and governments interact.
“When it comes to the issue of damage to roads, the trucking industry and governments’ relationships has always been a bit us-versus-them,” Rod said.
“We are the usually blamed for all the damage to the road. But if we had properly constructed and maintained roads to drive on, damage wouldn’t be as much of an issue.
“That’s where this system comes into its own. Every time a significant bump in the road is recorded a GPS location is taken.
“When the information is downloaded, it can then be used by the roads authority to accurately record the site, which can then be repaired.
“For the industry, it means we will have better roads to drive on, which will significantly reduce the cost of repairs to our trucks, as well as make our roads easier to drive, which will have a big impact on fatigue."