[phil]

is there even a sensor made that does this while driving at speed?

I've seen sensors that measure clearance, but those are for drivers who creep up to the object, not blindly driving around.

 

[gregoryx]

I'm eager to find out what this might mean... 🤔

We've been driving a 10' rig for years but it's always something that feels like it could happen... 😬

 

[Transit Authority]

We do know that there are not enough external warnings in the world to alert drivers to inadequate clearance so maybe you're really on to something.

https://www.youtube.com/c/yovo68

 

[ranxerox]

Stay on the truck route, Everything is a minimum of 13 feet 6 inches in height.

 

[NealCarney]

Not aware of a sensors, so I purchased the Allstays app for $10. It includes a low clearance database so you can get familiar with potential hazards before heading out on your trip, or during your trip. Unfortunately does not give you a proximity-based alert. Maybe something like that exists elsewhere. Aside from the low clearance, I find it is useful to scout out parks, public lands, rest stops, etc. There are a bunch of different filters you can set to find camping related facilities. Below is a screen grab of 7-10 ft low clearance in mid TX.

 

[Stormwind]

is there even a sensor made that does this while driving at speed?

I seen sensors that measure clearance, but those are for drivers who creep up to the object, not blindly driving around.

I've only found a "creep up to the object" sensor so far:

GiraffeG4 Classic - GiraffeG4

The driver checks the height of the obstacle before entering . . . the display in the cab let’s him know the exact height. Classic APP Free ,included with GiraffeG4 Classic purchase

giraffeg4.com

 

[Stormwind]

I just found this related thread:

Best app or device for low clearance warning

Is there a navigation app or device that warns of low clearances without keeping you completely off the parkways?

www.fordtransitusaforum.com

 

[oleknz]

I have a different solution in mind for this that I want to try.
I want to make a visual guide with a laser line mounted on the roof rack. They have all kinds of laser line flashlights online that could be adapted. I will mount it on the highest point of the vehicle and have a remote switch to use it as needed.
I know it's not a perfect solution and assumes you always pay attention and it's not super accurate when you are on a slope but it would be meant for fitting in tight places - so usually slow driving, parking, avoiding branches when driving at night in a forest and such. I am even considering 3 lines to project general outline of the vehicle forward - height and width. I think it will also just be a really cool gadget to play with

 

[Transit Authority]

I have a different solution in mind for this that I want to try.
I want to make a visual guide with a laser line mounted on the roof rack. They have all kinds of laser line flashlights online that could be adapted. I will mount it on the highest point of the vehicle and have a remote switch to use it as needed.
I know it's not a perfect solution and assumes you always pay attention and it's not super accurate when you are on a slope but it would be meant for fitting in tight places - so usually slow driving, parking, avoiding branches when driving at night in a forest and such. I am even considering 3 lines to project general outline of the vehicle forward - height and width. I think it will also just be a really cool gadget to play with

I like the idea but I'd be wary of lasering someone in the eyes.

 

[oleknz]

I like the idea but I'd be wary of lasering someone in the eyes.

Right. It would not be meant to be on while driving on a highway or street. Just for instances when approaching obstacles that you can already see up close - like a tunnel, garage opening, old viaduct or covered bridge, or a tree branch.

If there was a height sensor available I would definitely install it. It doesn't seem it would be difficult to make one - Just a proximity sensor with clipping planes maybe.

 

[brío]

If there was a height sensor available I would definitely install it. It doesn't seem it would be difficult to make one - Just a proximity sensor with clipping planes maybe.

You could try one of these:

Amazon.com: Laser Sensor Receiver Module Kit Laser Sensor Module Transmitter Module for Arduino AVR PIC STM32 : Electronics

Buy Laser Sensor Receiver Module Kit Laser Sensor Module Transmitter Module for Arduino AVR PIC STM32: Computer Components - Amazon.com ✓ FREE DELIVERY possible on eligible purchases

www.amazon.com

They work really well, although I'm not sure the range would be adequate for your goal.

 

[richards]

A builders self-leveling laser tool used for framing, floors and such. The beam could be used at night when the visibility is minimal in the woods. During the day you should be awake enough to visually see what you are running into.

 

[oleknz]

You could try one of these:

Amazon.com: Laser Sensor Receiver Module Kit Laser Sensor Module Transmitter Module for Arduino AVR PIC STM32 : Electronics

Buy Laser Sensor Receiver Module Kit Laser Sensor Module Transmitter Module for Arduino AVR PIC STM32: Computer Components - Amazon.com ✓ FREE DELIVERY possible on eligible purchases

www.amazon.com

They work really well, although I'm not sure the range would be adequate for your goal.

Hmmm. This looks like a home electronics thing. Max distance 1.5m - (5ft), and you would have to weather seal it somehow.

Laser-wise I was looking at this. A little pricey but green appears much brighter than red. (green is used on head-up displays for that reason), and supposedly weather proof and usb powered with a switch. Also supposedly "eye-safe".
Basically almost plug and play.

Amazon.com: INFINITER ML-200G Green Line Generator (Ideal for cutting works) Built-in Wall Mount and the USB Power Adapter is included! New feature: Waterproof! Sawdust proof! : Industrial & Scientific

Buy INFINITER ML-200G Green Line Generator (Ideal for cutting works) Built-in Wall Mount and the USB Power Adapter is included! New feature: Waterproof! Sawdust proof!: Industrial & Scientific - Amazon.com ✓ FREE DELIVERY possible on eligible purchases

www.amazon.com

 

[Otter]

Mount a cheap antenna that's 2" taller when mounted than the highest projection on the roof.

You will hear it drag/scrape if clearance is to low before you hit something important.

 

[Transit Authority]

Found this on the interwebs.

Shop - GiraffeG4

SHOP The GiraffeG4 Sentinel and Classic have beenaffected by the worldwide chip shortage. At this time all items are on backorder and should beavailable mid spring 2022. Please leave your email orphone number so we can notify you when all itemsbecome available. GiraffeG4 Sentinel And TRACKING...

giraffeg4.com

 

[rich446]

I have a camera on the front of the roof of my mid roof van to check for vertical clearance. The rear view monitor had spare inputs so I stuck a camera on top and added a short section of an old radio antenna cut to the max height of my maxxair fan in the frame. It is really helpful for making sure that I will fit through Starbucks and Mcdonalds drive throughs

 

[Racerb]

Sonor as used on carwash systems for 45 years. working distance is about 20 feet with speeds to acknowledge and take action of about 3mph.

 

[oleknz]

i tested the laser line device and I think I will keep it.
At night time it is as bright as it can get. In daylight it is still visible but subtle. Camera didn't pick it up as well your eyes can see it. They have a more powerful laser available but this one is enough for me and it would be too bright at night.

 

[Shannon D]

Mount a cheap antenna that's 2" taller when mounted than the highest projection on the roof.

You will hear it drag/scrape if clearance is to low before you hit something important.

I like this idea and have thought that I would like one that buzzes inside when it touches something. Anyone done something like that?