Get a MOTA

Australian rider trainers Rob Smith and Michael Stafford together with design engineer John McIver last month successfully launched a new hi-tech objective rider training assessment system called MOTA (Motorcycle Operator Training Assessor), at an FIM rider training symposium in Europe.

Smith explains: Following three years of development, the Australian designed and built system ran faultlessly for two days assessing and collecting data from around 80 participating trainers. The fully patented system can be programmed to any standard for training or testing and requires no subjective human assessment. Using a minimum range size of just 60m x 40m, the core skills of braking, swerving and riding curves are tested by scientific measurement, using inertial sensors that record reaction time, acceleration, braking force, swerve force and lean angle.

This means that even though the same skills as those tested in the EU Third Driving Licence Directive are covered, much less space is needed resulting in considerably less cost to set up, thereby increasing access to training and testing. A second benefit of the smaller area is that less speed is needed. Most exercises can be taught at speeds of between 25 and 35kmh. This means that not only is training easier to control on the range, but any mishaps involve lower speed and thereby less risk of serious injury.

MOTA consists of a small unit the size of a packet of cigarettes attached to the motorcycle that sends information to a laptop computer and a system of lights that signal brake or swerve responses. During testing, the rider has to match speed and lean angle to left and right curves before attempting 5 runs at the lights that randomly select braking or swerving responses. Using custom built software the computer compares the rider's performance with a predetermined standard and determines whether or not the performance fell within an acceptable range. For example a novice rider is expected to achieve smooth and rapid transition to a braking force of 0.7g.

By removing human error and the opportunity for favoritism, the system offers total integrity and audit-ability. Results can be reviewed as raw data, 2D trajectory view and 3D real time replay, allowing trainers and testers to review and identify rider weaknesses and tailor training to suit either in classroom or on range solutions. All test results and data associated with the test candidate can be downloaded, allowing file storage and ensuring accountability.

Besides attracting significant interest from European Union representatives, other countries interested in purchasing the system include Canada, Greece and the UK. For further information (including a video) visit the DVExperts website www.dvexperts.net and click on Media Gallery, then Innovations.