#Japan #ADAS #Chiyoda #Morpho #Distance Scanner

Morpho's Revolutionary Distance Estimation Technology

Morpho, based in Chiyoda, Tokyo, has recently launched its groundbreaking technology known as the Morpho Distance Scanner. This innovation allows for precise distance estimation using a single RGB camera. This introduces a cost-effective alternative to traditional distance measurement methods such as LiDAR, stereo cameras, sonars, and millimeter-wave radar, particularly benefiting Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) and autonomous driving.

The Significance of Distance Estimation in Automotive

As vehicles become more intelligent and autonomous, the number of sensors installed in them has steadily increased over the years. Accurate measurement of distances between the vehicle and its surroundings is paramount for ensuring safety on the roads. Traditionally, LiDAR and stereo cameras have been the go-to solutions for distance estimation, but their high costs have made them impractical for lower-priced vehicles. Furthermore, the space limitations and design flexibility associated with installing these systems have added to the challenges.

To alleviate these issues, Morpho has developed a distance estimation software that operates solely with an RGB camera. This tech balances the need for enhanced safety features with cost-effectiveness and design freedom.

Features of the Morpho Distance Scanner

The Morpho Distance Scanner employs software that estimates the distance to an object from a single image captured by an RGB camera. This system doesn’t necessitate any additional hardware, leveraging existing onboard cameras. Here are its primary features:

• - Single RGB Camera Operation: Functions as a substitute for LiDAR, stereo cameras, sonar, and millimeter-wave radar.
• - High Installation Flexibility: Does not require strict adjustments regarding the camera’s position or angle.
• - Two Models Available: Users can choose between a high-precision model (3,000ms/1frame) and a high-speed model (33ms/1frame), based on their needs.
• - Real-Time Processing Capability: Supports inference at a maximum of 30fps for automotive applications.
• - Ideal for Software Defined Vehicles (SDV): Facilitates software updates for feature additions, allowing integration into a wide range of vehicle types and platforms without hardware changes.

Precision Evaluation

Morpho's technology has been evaluated using datasets tailored for short (1-4m) and mid-long range (5-30m) measurements. The evaluation results indicate that for an object 10m away, the high-precision model has a relative error of 3.8%, which translates to an average deviation of around 38cm. For the mid-long range (5-30m), the average relative error is 5.5%. Continuous refinement of datasets and model tuning are anticipated, aiming to ensure stable, high accuracy across diverse situations.

Future Prospects

The Morpho Distance Scanner is anticipated to be utilized not only in ADAS and autonomous driving contexts but also in a plethora of other applications, including automatic summarization of onboard footage, annotation support, and various recognition model integrations for enhanced precision. Future expansions may encompass smartphone applications, robotics, and surveillance systems, diversifying the reach of distance estimation technology.

Morpho is committed to progressing this technology beyond vehicle applications, as part of a broader goal to elevate safety and convenience in societal infrastructures.

About Morpho

Morpho Inc. is a research and development-oriented company specializing in image processing and AI technologies. It offers advanced imaging technologies through integrated software solutions to smartphone manufacturers and semiconductor firms globally. The company's capabilities in AI-driven image recognition are aimed at automotive and industrial IoT sectors, driving various innovations in advanced imaging technology.

• - Location: 11th Floor, KANDA SQUARE, 2-2-1 Kanda Nishikicho, Chiyoda, Tokyo
• - CEO: Masaki Hiraga, PhD (Science)
• - Established: May 26, 2004
• - Capital: ¥1,858,943,000 (as of October 31, 2024)
• - Website: Morpho Inc.
• - Contact: PR Manager Sato, Tel: 090-1051-0138, Contact Form

Note: Morpho and the Morpho logo are registered trademarks or trademarks of Morpho Inc.