Mike Thoeny, Delphi Electronic Controls’ Managing Director in North America, gave an interview with Just-Auto. Here are some main points:
On multifunction cameras
Multifunction cameras and radar are the two most important technologies for ADAS in the immediate future. Cameras do a great job at recognising objects and provide accurate edge details, radar has excellent range and range rate detection without being impacted by lighting and visibility issues that can affect camera systems. Sensor fusion, the combination of both radar and camera systems, can provide a highly accurate view that we believe provides the most robust solution for collision imminent braking.
Multifunction cameras will continue to proliferate, and the number of features will continue to grow as advancements are made in imagers, faster processors, reduced package size and more advanced algorithms. Forward looking cameras can detect lane markings, identify pedestrians, cyclists and animals, interpret traffic signs, optimise headlight high beam usage, present enhanced night vision images and identify objects as part of a forward collision warning system.
On traffic sign recognition
We are seeing an increase in demand for Traffic Sign Recognition (TSR) systems across multiple customers, especially in Europe. This is enabled by EU consistency in traffic sign designs. However, we also expect TSR demand to increase for US customers as well. The processing requirements for features such as TSR and pedestrian recognition is large, so developments in less expensive processors will help to accelerate these advanced camera-based products as part of the overall single camera, multiple function approach.
On rear facing cameras:
Rear-facing cameras provide parking assist functions and rear collision warning functions. Cameras as a part of a sensor fusion system combined with radar can provide even greater accuracy for systems that provide autonomous braking and steering control. Consumers have accepted this technology and the application rate has reached nearly 50%, with a solid growth rate predicted over the next 5 years.
