VOLVO PEDESTRIAN AND CYCLIST DETECTION WITH FULL AUTO BRAKE

As the leader in automotive safety, Volvo were the initial company in the industry with their first-generation brake support in 2006 which was later upgraded to pedestrian detection with full auto brake in 2010 and added cyclist detection in 2013.

Industry accident data shows that about 50 per cent of all cyclists killed in European traffic have collided with a car, so a system that can help prevent such accidents is an absolute “no brainer”. The inclusion of cyclists in the detection system has come about through the use of new advanced software that includes more rapid vision processing.

Volvo claims that its solutions for avoiding collisions with unprotected road users are unique in the industry. By covering more and more objects and situations, Volvo believes it is reinforcing its world-leading position within automotive safety and moving nearer to its long-term vision to design cars that do not crash.

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 vehicle 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.

The Pedestrian and Cyclist Detection with full auto brake system 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 high-resolution camera makes it possible to spot...