Guide To: UNECE R159 - Moving Off Information System (MOIS)

Guide To: UNECE R159 - Moving Off Information System (MOIS)

UN ECE Regulation No. 159 establishes the uniform provisions for the approval of Moving Off Information Systems (MOIS) in motor vehicles. These systems are designed to detect the presence of pedestrians and cyclists in the forward blind spot of a vehicle and provide the driver with relevant information to prevent collisions, particularly during low-speed manoeuvres or when a vehicle is starting to move from a stationary position.

Scope of the Regulation

UN ECE R159 applies to:

• Motor vehicles in categories M2, M3, N2, and N3, which include buses, trucks, and heavy vehicles.
• The regulation is specifically aimed at protecting vulnerable road users (VRUs) such as pedestrians and cyclists, ensuring that drivers are alerted to their presence in the critical forward blind spot.

Key Features of UN ECE R159

1. Definition of MOIS:

   • The Moving Off Information System (MOIS) detects and informs the driver about the presence of pedestrians and cyclists in the forward blind spot of the vehicle. The system is activated when the vehicle begins to move or is preparing to move off from rest.

2. Information and Collision Warning Signals:

   • Information signals: These are designed to inform the driver when a pedestrian or cyclist enters the critical detection area. The system provides an optical signal that is easily visible to the driver.
   • Collision warning signals: If a collision is imminent, the system issues a combination of optical, acoustic, or haptic signals to alert the driver to take immediate action.

3. System Activation and Operation:

   • The MOIS is active during low-speed manoeuvres and when the vehicle is stationary with the intent to move off. The system detects vulnerable road users moving at speeds between 3 and 5 km/h when they are located within the designated detection area.
   • The system is equipped with automatic deactivation functions if sensors become contaminated (e.g., by ice or dirt), and it must automatically reactivate when normal sensor functionality is restored.

4. Performance Requirements:

   • The MOIS must provide timely information to the driver when a vulnerable road user enters the detection zone. The information signal must be clearly visible both during the day and at night.
   • The system must meet stringent test procedures to ensure that it performs reliably in real-world driving scenarios. This includes tests for different pedestrian and cyclist sizes and movement directions.

5. Manual Deactivation:

   • It is possible to manually deactivate the MOIS through a sequence of actions by the driver. However, the system must automatically reactivate once the vehicle’s master control switch is turned on again.

6. Testing and Approval:

   • The regulation outlines specific test procedures for verifying the effectiveness of the MOIS, including tests for blind spot boundaries, collision point detection, and failure modes. These tests ensure that the system operates as intended and provides accurate information to the driver.
   • Approved MOIS systems must carry a visible approval mark that certifies compliance with UN ECE R159.

Conclusion

UN ECE R159 ensures that motor vehicles, particularly buses and heavy trucks, are equipped with systems that can detect vulnerable road users in their forward blind spots. By providing drivers with timely information and warnings, the Moving Off Information System helps prevent accidents, improving road safety for pedestrians and cyclists. Compliance with this regulation is essential for manufacturers and fleet operators aiming to enhance vehicle safety.