A car without a driver may still sound like a far-fetched concept for some. But autonomous driving holds widespread promise for society – paving the way to fewer accidents, stress-free transport and more productive commutes. However, for a vehicle to drive safely on its own, it needs to "see," "judge" and "operate" even better than a human. Mitsubishi Electric is utilizing its broad array of technologies to help reach this goal.

Safety Systems

What will a car need to do to drive on its own? Just like a human driver, it will need to be aware of its surroundings so it can make sound judgements. To drive safely, a self-driving car will also need to effectively operate the steering wheel, accelerator and brakes.

Moving toward an autonomous driving future, Mitsubishi Electric is developing a system that helps human drivers with all of these things. Mitsubishi Electric’s Advanced Driver Assistance System, or "ADAS" for short, will combine its advanced sensing, vehicle control and communications technologies to make driving easier, safer and more comfortable than ever before.

Camera & Multiple Sensors

To accurately "see" its surroundings, ADAS will make use of a forward-looking camera and sensors that use millimeter-wave radar and ultrasonic sonar. The forward-looking camera can differentiate lanes, detect nearby pedestrians and vehicles, read signs and even adjust the headlights for oncoming cars.

The millimeter-wave radar sensor can measure the distance and relative speed of other vehicles, bicycles, pedestrians and objects. For enhanced visibility, the ultrasonic sonar sensor measures the relative speeds and distances of obstacles up to eight meters away.

With that information, a computer inside the car, also known as an electronic control unit or "ECU," will judge what to do next for safe driving—and even help with the parking!

Snow Patrol

Curvy and snow-covered roads are some of the more difficult conditions human drivers negotiate — some better than others! These kinds of roads also make it hard for sensors and cameras to detect their surroundings. Mitsubishi Electric’s ADAS gives a vehicle precise and flexible driving and stopping power to help drivers operate even in sub-optimal conditions.

What’s more, the system will have access to much more information than today's driver. Since the car can communicate with quasi-zenith satellite systems and landscape data from precise 3D maps for location-based information — not to mention roadside antennas with data on current conditions — driving is sure to be smoother than it is today. Mitsubishi Electric’s expertise in all of these related technologies will ensure a high degree of accuracy and safety.
With any vehicle, passenger safety is a top priority, and autonomous and assisted driving cars are no exception. ADAS will link with other related systems to actively protect those inside the vehicle in the future.
From sensors to satellites, Mitsubishi Electric’s Advanced Driver Assistance System is laying the foundation to make our roads safer for all.

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