Expected to Launch in 2005
NOVI, Mich., March 4 /PRNewswire/ -- Omron Automotive today announced
development of a new laser radar sensor. The sensor is being developed for
use on adaptive cruise control that automatically adjusts a vehicle's speed
and distance by "sensing" a car or truck ahead. It can also be used on "stop
and go" systems where the vehicle's engine shuts down for extended stop, such
as big city traffic lights. The new sensor is expected to be on a 2005 model
year vehicle.
Omron introduced the laser radar sensor at the Society of Automotive
Engineers (SAE) Conference and Expo held at Cobo Center in Detroit, March 4-8,
in the company's exhibit #2801.
"The new laser radar sensor will become an integral part of what's called
the 'intelligent vehicle highway system," said Jerry Bricker, vice president
of sales and marketing at Omron Automotive. "This system of the future will
help ensure drivers' comfort, convenience and safety. If a vehicle in front
of a you slows down, so does your vehicle."
Omron's sensor uses an optical device that emits a laser beam. The beam
scans a prescribed area and "senses" the speed and distance of the vehicle
ahead. "It measures from one to 150 meters -- a much greater distance than
traditional systems," said Bricker. "And with a 30 degree (included) angle
from side to side, this sensor can easily support 'stop and go' operation.
Through innovative technology, our sensor realizes high-performance detection
of the vehicle in front (through splashes from vehicles or rain or fog) during
bad conditions that were impossible to detect with earlier versions of laser
radar. Even when compared to the highly priced milli-wave radar, this product
achieves the same performance during actual use. The cost is less than one
third of the milli-wave radar and high performance is its key advantage."
Originally manufactured seven years ago for heavy-trucks, this is Omron's
third-generation laser radar sensor that Bricker said uses Omron's optical
technology. "The new super component is less than half the size of current
sensor on production cars, which saves space and reduces weight," said
Bricker. Other advantages include:
* Enhanced software algorithms that can detect vehicle type (car or
motorcycle, for example). This is important in heavy traffic with a mix of
vehicle types.
* Self-aiming capability - The optics are internally self-adjusting;
traditional systems must be mechanically aimed, requiring additional labor.
* The sensor is integrated with the cruise control system.
"The use of the laser radar sensor is a natural extension of our optical
technology used in other markets," said Bricker. "We developed optics
technology for use in copiers, video projectors and other highly sensitive
applications."
About Omron Automotive
Omron Automotive Electronics, headquartered in Novi, MI, is a division of
Omron Corporation in Nagoya, Japan. Omron Automotive designs and manufactures
a wide range of advanced electronic control components, super components and
systems including remote keyless entry systems and power window and sliding
door anti-pinch controls. Other products include various ergonomic switch
assemblies and PCB and plug-in relays. The division has close to 750
employees in North America with one manufacturing facility in the U.S. and two
in Canada. Sales for the 2001 fiscal year exceeded $170 million.
About Omron Corporation
Omron Corporation was founded as a manufacturer of relays for x-ray timers
in 1933. In addition to automotive electronic components, the company's major
markets include industrial automation, electronic and mechanical components
for commercial and industrial uses, healthcare products, ATM machines, card
readers and traffic control systems, plus new ventures into intelligent
transportation systems, information technology and wireless communications.
The corporation has 25,000 employees in 30 countries globally. Fiscal year
2001 sales were $5.7 billion. For more information please visit http://www.omron.com
SOURCE Omron Automotive
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Related links:
http://www.omron.com
CONTACT:
Mie Belgrave of Omron, +1-248-893-0200,
mie.belgrave@omron.com ; or Erin Millerschin of AutoPR,
+1-248-656-2388, emillerschin@auto-pr.com , for Omron Automotive
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