Volvo reveals world-first Cyclist Detection with Full Auto Brake
Volvo literally rolled out another Volvo world-first in automotive safety at a press conference at the recent Geneva Motor Show. The Swedish company introduced a ground-breaking safety feature that detects and automatically brakes for cyclists swerving out in front of the car.
The new functionality is an enhancement of the present detection and auto- brake technologies, and the package will be called Pedestrian and Cyclist Detection with Full Auto Brake. All cars equipped with pedestrian detection will also incorporate cyclist detection.
According to accident data, about 50 percent of all cyclists killed in European traffic have collided with a car—a number that is counteracted by Volvo’s new Pedestrian and Cyclist Detection technology. New advanced software, including more rapid vision processing, has made it possible to extend the present detection and auto brake technology to also cover certain cyclist situations.
A cyclist in the same lane swerving out in front of the car is one incident type that is addressed by the Pedestrian and Cyclist Detection with Full Auto Brake. The advanced sensor system scans the area ahead. If a cyclist heading in the same direction as the car suddenly swerves out in front of the car as it approaches from behind and a collision is imminent, there is an instant warning and full braking power is applied.
The car’s speed has considerable importance for the outcome of an accident. A lower speed of impact means that the risk of serious injury is significantly reduced.
Pedestrian and Cyclist Detection with Full Auto Brake consists of a radar unit integrated into the car’s grille, a camera fitted in front of the interior rear-view mirror and a central control unit. The radar detects objects in front of the car and determines the distance to them. The camera determines the type of the objects. Thanks to the dual-mode radar’s wide field of vision, pedestrians and cyclists can be detected early on. The high-resolution camera makes it possible to spot the moving pattern of pedestrians and cyclists. The central control unit continuously monitors and evaluates the traffic situation.
The auto brake system requires both the radar and the camera to confirm the object. With the advanced sensor technology, it is then possible to apply full braking power immediately when necessary. The technology also covers vehicles driving in the same lane.