Hyundai Mobis introduces radar-based innovations

MANILA: Hyundai Mobis announced that it was able to develop a system for the detection of rear-seat passengers through a radar-like system, the Rear Occupant Alert (ROA). There is also a plan to suggest the implementation of the system to global automobile manufacturers.

The ROA is a type of device that aims to prevent passengers like babies and toddlers from getting into accident in their rear seats.

Weight sensors found in the car seats of children and the ultrasonic sensors are the usual devices used. The Hyundai Mobis promises to significantly enhance accuracy in passenger detection. This is through effective deployment of the radar sensor.  The goal of the radar sensor is to aid in the prevention of heatstroke accidents during summer, and other mishaps that may happen to children who are left unattended in cars.

According to the director of the EE Research Center of Hyundai Mobis, Jang Jae-ho, the passenger detection system is generated based on the radar used to detect autonomous driving. It utilizes the design of a software algorithm that detects the small but detailed movements of passengers.

The radar can determine different biological signals, such as the small movements of passengers like breathing and even blood flow. The radar also has the ability to penetrate clothing as well. It can accurately recognize the presence of individuals in rear seats. The newly developed radar has also overcome the downsides of the camera sensor since it cannot monitor babies concealed in blankets.

The passenger detection system signals the driver if there is a passenger left in the rear seat. The system can detect the sound of the car door whenever it closes. It can also detect sounds coming from a smartphone or the instrument panel.

This detection system also features secure electromagnetic stability to operate naturally near railways and high-voltage lines. The system is also sufficiently accurate to recognize pets, infants, and adults.

Hyundai Mobis also has plans of designing a type of radar that can potentially enhance biometric function and determine the heartbeat of passengers this year.

Hyundai Mobis has constructively developed related innovations as major global markets like Europe and North America are implementing regulations to prevent children from further accidents in cars as a result of being left unattended.

The in-cabin sensor technology provides convenience and safety to passengers, even in high-level autonomous driving mode. It has been determined that various protection and convenience innovations are expected to arrive efficiently and are considered robust for passengers.

If the in-cabin technology will be developed further in the high-level autonomous driving mode, the vehicle can function as an ambulance to transport patients directly to the emergency rooms of hospitals.

Aside from the radar-based passenger detection system, Hyundai Mobis also developed the Driver State Warning (DSW) last year. This type of technology helps drivers avoid dozing off behind the steering wheel. It also utilizes a type of camera that monitors the movement of the pupils.

In the past, Hyundai Mobis also introduced Departed Driver Rescue Exit and Maneuver (DDREM). This is a type of safety technology based on the in-cabin sensor. It helps monitor the conditions of the driver, and once dozing off is detected while driving, the vehicle immediately stops on its own.

At present, the company plans to acquire sensor fusion technologies that combine both cameras and radar systems. The purpose of this is to anticipate the in-cabin sensor market.