The system uses millimeter-wave radar to detect occupants throughout the vehicle cabin to help prevent heatstroke deaths. (Image credit: Toyota)
According to the NHTSA (US Department of Transpiration) and Insurance Zebra, there is an average of 38 hot car deaths each year, and it spikes some years. That number doesn't include pets or the elderly, and while that number seems low, losing a loved one is never easy. What is easy is preventing those deaths by being aware of the number of passengers riding in the vehicle. Granted, distractions can happen on the best of days, which is why Toyota is developing a new system that detects the number of passengers throughout the vehicle cabin using millimeter-wave high definition 4D radar.
The Cabin Awareness system uses a 4D imaging sensor mounted above a vehicle's headliner to detect lifeforms, even after the driver exits. The system has the capability to sense micro-movements, such as the heartbeat, motion and respiration of occupants across three entire seating rows, the cargo area and footwells. It also classifies everyone in the vehicle according to size, posture and position, providing advanced safety applications.
"Toyota Connected's talented software engineers and data scientists are leveraging cutting-edge technology to bring innovation and advanced technologies to customers' vehicles," stated Zack Hicks, CEO and president, TCNA executive vice president and chief digital officer. "We are extremely proud of our efforts to take this idea from the drawing board to a full-blown concept and, hopefully, developing a technology that has the potential to save lives."
Toyota's Cabin Awareness system provides a series of warnings to help alert the driver (and potentially passersby) to check the vehicle if a living being is detected. Initially, a warning light signals on the vehicle's instrument cluster. The horn will then honk, and emergency lights will flash. Finally, the owner may get a notification on their phone through the Toyota app as well as text messages alerting them that humans or pets are still inside the vehicle. Toyota is also considering the option of programming the platform to interact with automated home systems and emergency services (police, fire, ambulance) in case the owner can't gain access.
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