Increased safety with MX Light Panels at RES Axel

RES Axel, a motocross facility in the Netherlands, pioneering the use of the cutting-edge MYLAPS MX Race Control solution.

Safety in motorsport is an important issue and is one of the focal points of the recently established MX-Masterplan. This initiative, set up by the Dutch motocross federations MON and KNMV, has the mission to preserve and strengthen motocross in the Netherlands. Under the support of the MX-Masterplan initiative, RES Axel has partnered with MYLAPS to implement automated track monitoring and warning capabilities. Five LED light panels have been strategically installed around the track to instantly display caution flags and other critical alerts.

Making Motocross Safer

RES Axel chairman Rudi Adam emphasizes the importance of this technology: “Rider safety is a key focus for us. The current technology allows us to make great strides in that direction. We know MYLAPS as a professional partner because we have been using their timekeeping system for years. We are looking forward to this and hope to make the sport safer, not only on our own track but eventually for riders everywhere.”

Instantly Spot Accidents

RES Axel has significantly improved its ability to identify potential accidents by implementing the MYLAPS X2 Race Control software’s automatic accident detection system. The software utilizes tracking devices mounted on riders’ bikes to instantly recognize when a competitor comes to an unexpected stop. This feature has proven particularly crucial in high-risk areas such as landing zones after jumps or in blind corners. In one instance, a rider fell after a large jump and was at risk of being hit by oncoming riders. The system immediately detected the stopped rider, allowing race control to respond within seconds, potentially preventing a serious multi-rider collision.

Precise Rider Localization

The ability to pinpoint a stopped rider’s exact location on a track map using the race control software has revolutionized RES Axel’s emergency response protocol. Before implementing the MYLAPS race control system, track marshals had to rely on visual cues and radio communications to locate accidents, often leading to confusion and delays. Now, when an incident occurs, race control can see the precise location on a digital track map. This feature has allowed RES Axel to optimize the positioning of their emergency crews and equipment, resulting in faster response times.

Automated Warning System

The LED light panels have significantly enhanced rider safety at RES Axel. These panels, strategically placed before jumps and in other critical areas, automatically display warning flags when an incident is detected. This feature has proven invaluable in preventing secondary accidents. In a recent race, a rider fell on the landing of a large jump. The system immediately triggered yellow flag warnings on the LED panels approaching the jump, alerting the following riders to slow down and proceed with caution. Multiple riders later reported that these warnings allowed them to adjust their speed and trajectory, avoiding what could have been a serious pileup.

Improved Overall Safety

Perhaps the most significant benefit RES Axel has experienced is the overall improvement in safety at the track. The implementation of the MYLAPS Race Control system has demonstrated to riders, teams, and spectators that the track takes safety seriously. This has led to increased confidence among participants at RES Axel. The track has seen a decrease in the severity of accidents since implementing the system, as the quick response times often prevent minor incidents from escalating.

Customized Exclusion Zones

RES Axel has taken full advantage of the system’s ability to define custom exclusion zones. This feature has been particularly useful in the starting area, where riders naturally come to a stop before and after races. By designating this area as an exclusion zone, RES Axel has eliminated false alarms that previously caused unnecessary concern and distraction for race officials. RES Axel has also applied this feature to the rider's park, ensuring that the accident detection system focuses solely on active racing areas. This customization has greatly improved the system’s efficiency and reduced the likelihood of unnecessary alerts among the race control staff.

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