In a groundbreaking move for automotive safety technology, Raytron Technology Co., Ltd. has partnered with Zeekr, a subsidiary of Geely, to unveil the world's first thermal Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB) system. This innovative partnership aims to address the growing regulatory demand for vehicle safety standards, particularly in light of the increasing emphasis on automated driving systems in modern cars and light trucks.
The integration of the thermal AEB in the Zeekr 9X SUV represents a significant leap forward in vehicular safety, transitioning thermal imaging from mere situational awareness to a critical component for active decision-making and intervention. This novel system, known as the G-Pilot H9, goes beyond traditional AEB technologies that rely heavily on visible light cameras and radar. Instead, the thermal AEB system leverages Raytron’s advanced infrared thermal cameras to perform optimally even in the most challenging conditions.
Understanding Traditional AEB vs. Thermal AEB
Traditional AEB systems primarily utilize visible light cameras and radar sensors to gauge distances to obstacles and execute braking when necessary. However, these systems struggle in low-light conditions, adverse weather, and instances of glare from oncoming headlights. In contrast, Raytron’s thermal AEB system operates effectively at night and in poor weather, significantly enhancing detection capabilities.
For instance, while standard headlights illuminate about 100 to 150 meters ahead, Raytron's thermal imaging technology can identify obstacles from as far as 300 meters away during nighttime. This extended detection range offers drivers more time to react, particularly on dimly lit highways and rural roads. Moreover, thermal imaging remains unaffected by intense glare, thereby reducing instances of temporary blindness encountered by drivers when faced with oncoming traffic.
The thermal cameras also excel in detecting environmental obstacles that would otherwise pose hazards, such as pedestrians in dark clothing and animals like deer or boars, which may unexpectedly wander onto the roadway. This technology utilizes thermal signatures to identify living beings and act swiftly to prevent accidents.
Raytron's Horus 640D Module
At the heart of this innovation is Raytron's Horus 640D camera module, which has been successfully integrated into the Zeekr 9X SUV. This module combines Raytron’s patented uncooled infrared detector with its state-of-the-art Falcon image processing chip and leading-edge image processing algorithms. The Horus 640D offers substantial benefits regarding reliability, cost, performance, size, and energy consumption.
Compact in design, measuring 32.5 by 60.5 by 43 mm, the module allows for flexible installation in tight spaces within vehicles, such as grille areas, which is crucial for mass production by original equipment manufacturers (OEMs). To date, Raytron's thermal imaging modules have powered over 20 vehicle models through collaborations with 15 automakers, spanning a diverse range of vehicles from sedans to commercial trucks, and from assisted-driving vehicles to fully autonomous models.
Conclusion
As the automotive industry continues to evolve amidst increasing technological advancements and regulatory demands, partnerships like that of Raytron and Zeekr highlight the push towards safer and more reliable driving experiences. With the introduction of the thermal AEB system, it is anticipated that more manufacturers will adopt this innovative technology, paving the way for smarter and safer road travel in the future. For further information on Raytron's developments and technologies, visit their official website or reach out via email.
For more details, visit:
Raytron Official Site