Long-Range Laser Radar Sensors For Vehicle Collision Avoidance Systems

Laser Radar Sensors

With the increasing number of vehicles on the road, rear-end collisions account for 30%-40% of traffic accidents. As the importance of reducing accidents and casualties in car travel grows, vehicle collision avoidance systems have become increasingly crucial and urgent. The development of these systems is driven by the promotion of road traffic safety regulations and the iterative upgrades of active safety devices in vehicles.

Vehicle collision warning systems are generally used to assist drivers in preventing major accidents such as high-speed and low-speed rear-end collisions, unintentional lane departures at high speeds, and collisions with pedestrians. 

The primary challenge in collision avoidance technology is maintaining a safe distance between vehicles. If the distance between vehicles falls below the safe threshold, an automatic warning should be triggered, and braking measures should be taken to prevent collision accidents and ensure the safety of the driver.

Methods for Measuring Vehicle Distance

Currently, there are three main methods for measuring safe distances between vehicles: ultrasonic ranging, microwave radar ranging, and laser ranging. Ultrasonic ranging is based on the reflection characteristics of ultrasound. An ultrasonic generator continuously emits ultrasonic waves at a frequency of 4 kHz, which are reflected and transformed into reflected waves when encountering obstacles. 

After receiving the reflected wave signal, the ultrasonic receiver converts it into an electrical signal, allowing the measurement of the distance to the target. Microwave ranging uses the reflection of electromagnetic waves from the target to locate and determine its position. Laser ranging operates similarly to microwave radar ranging. There are two specific methods for laser ranging: continuous wave and pulsed wave. Among these methods, laser ranging is recommended by industry experts for measuring safe distances between vehicles.

Technical Application of Long-Range Laser Radar Sensors

Installing a laser radar sensor in the front of a vehicle is an effective solution. The compact size of the sensor allows for integration through embedded installation in the vehicle’s radiator grille or near the license plate. The main control board collects and analyzes the data from the laser radar and triggers an alarm when the distance between the vehicle and the obstacle ahead falls below the set threshold. 

This device can achieve a long detection range of up to 180 meters, with millisecond-level response speed. It is easy to install and operate and can be mounted on various types of vehicles, including construction, transport, special, and private passenger vehicles. It can identify and assess multiple potential hazardous situations and provide audio and visual alerts to help drivers avoid or mitigate collision accidents.

Recommended Laser Radar Sensor: TF03-180

One recommended laser radar sensor for long-range detection is the TF03-180, which is an industrial-grade, high-speed measurement laser radar with a range of up to 180 meters. The TF03-180 incorporates compensation algorithms for bright outdoor light and adverse weather conditions, ensuring its normal operation in such environments. It also offers various measurement modes and parameters for customers to configure according to their ranging requirements.

Key Features of TF03-180:

  • Ultra-high frame rate (up to 10 kHz)
  • IP67 protection rating
  • Compact size
  • Multiple industrial interfaces (UART, CAN, IO, RS485, RS232)

Applications of TF03-180:

  • Vehicle collision prevention and safety warnings
  • Traffic flow statistics
  • Triggering camera captures
  • Assisting in unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) takeoff and landing operations

Conclusion

The application of long-range laser radar sensors in vehicle collision avoidance systems has become increasingly important in ensuring road safety and reducing accidents. With the ability to accurately measure distances and detect potential hazards, laser radar sensors offer an effective solution for preventing collisions and providing timely warnings to drivers. 

The TF03-180 is a laser radar sensor that combines high-speed measurement capabilities, a wide range, and adaptability to various environmental conditions, making it a valuable tool for enhancing vehicle safety.