DENSO has developed what it is calling a new standard vision sensor that detects pedestrians at night, cyclists, road signs, driving lanes, and other road users and characteristics. Working in conjunction with a millimeter-wave radar sensor, the vision sensor allows automobiles to automatically activate emergency braking when obstacles are identified. It is featured in the 2018 Toyota Alphard and Vellfire, which were released this month.
The new sensor improves night vision via a unique lens specifically designed for low-light use, and a solid-state imaging device with higher sensitivity. These innovations help the sensor better identify other road users and different-shaped road signs, such as triangular, rectangular, and octagonal signs used in Japan, Europe, and the United States. An improved white-line detection algorithm and road-edge detection algorithm also broaden the operating range of lane-keeping assistance and lane departure alert functions, while a 40% size reduction from previous models reduces costs and makes installation easier. For more information, visit DENSO’s safety sensing page.