In order to effectively detect obstacles across a wide area, the ultrasonic waves emitted must have a broad horizontal spread. If the ultrasonic waves spread vertically, however, the system will mistake road surfaces and curb blocks for obstacles, resulting in operational errors.

Our sonar features narrow directivity, suppressing the vertical spread of ultrasonic waves while maintaining the horizontal spread. This enables a single sensor to detect even distant obstacles efficiently.

Ultrasonic waves behave differently in the vertical and horizontal directions. This causes the strength of the returning ultrasonic waves to vary depending on the height and position of the obstacles. Our Sonar Sensing System adjusts these differences to match the sonar characteristics, and processes the signal to extract only what we want to detect. With this technology, we can implement systems that, for example, “alert the driver to walls high enough to pose a collision risk but ignore curb blocks in parking lots” or “alert the driver to utility poles that pose a collision risk but ignore those located where the vehicle can scrape past.” This contributes to safer and more secure vehicle control.

In recent years, various global regulations and assessments are taking shape rapidly, addressing safety checks when reversing a vehicle and in the event of a pedal error (UN-R158*1, UN-R175*2, IIHS*3 and more). Our sonar system complies with these rules and contributes to creating a safe and secure environment for our customers worldwide.