Automotive Occupant Sensing System Market Analysis

In-depth Analysis of Automotive Occupant Sensing System Market Industry Landscape

The method for sensing occupancy status within an automotive vehicle, as detailed in patent LU 92541 A1 and assigned to IEE Sarl, introduces an innovative radar sensor system. This system comprises an antenna system, at least one sensor, and processing circuitry, collectively working to provide comprehensive detection and classification of vehicle occupants.
The primary objective of this method is to illuminate at least one occupiable position within the vehicle using continuous wave (CW signals) generated by the antenna system. Notably, these CW signals are frequency modulated in time to enhance their effectiveness in occupant detection. The ensuing step involves receiving at least one sensor signal, denoted as "a," which results from the reflection of the CW signals. The at least one sensor, with defined receive channels (1...i), each operating at a different frequency (f1...fi), captures these signals for further analysis.
The processing circuitry, a pivotal component of the radar sensor system, undertakes DC offset removal for each receive channel. This process generates modified signals, denoted as "b," which serve as the basis for generating one or more occupancy status signals (34, 38). These signals convey properties related to the occupiable position, thereby facilitating in-vehicle occupant detection and classification. The applications of this technology extend to airbag suppression, passenger presence detection, monitoring vital signs of passengers, and seat-belt reminder functionality (SBR).
The radar system, as outlined in the patent, can consist of one or two (or four) outputs per channel (l/Q). The received signal undergoes mixing down, facilitated by a single-channel demodulator or an l/Q demodulator, transitioning it into the baseband for further analysis. An advanced signal processing approach, inclusive of an auto calibration routine and clutter removal, enhances the system's capability to detect occupants, monitor vital signs (such as breathing and heart rate), and determine their distance from the radar system.
this patented radar sensing method, developed by IEE Sarl, introduces a cutting-edge system for sensing occupancy status within an automotive vehicle. By utilizing continuous wave signals and advanced signal processing techniques, this method goes beyond simple detection to classify occupants, monitor vital signs, and enhance overall safety features within the vehicle. The incorporation of accelerometer data further enriches the system's capabilities by providing information about the vehicle's vibrations or motions, contributing to a more robust and sophisticated occupant sensing technology. The patent, dated March 11, 2016, signifies a significant advancement in radar-based occupant detection systems within the automotive industry.