Panasonic Life Solutions India’s Industrial Devices Division (INDD) has introduced an innovative 6-in-1 inertial sensor with 6 Degrees of Freedom (6DoF). This sensor measures vehicle acceleration and angular rate across three axes (X, Y, and Z), providing critical information to enhance vehicle safety and stability. The sensors are claimed to adhere rigorously to the ISO26262 Functional Safety Standards, including the highest Automotive Safety Integrity Level (ASIL-D), ensuring robustness and dependability in mission-critical applications.
The compact Panasonic 6-in-1 inertial sensor, measuring 4.5mm x 4.5mm x 1.1mm, integrates three accelerometers and three gyroscopes onto a single MEMS chip. This design innovation eliminates alignment complexities during integration, providing engineers with unprecedented design freedom. The sensors enable automotive systems to respond effectively to changing road conditions, unforeseen emergencies, and potential hazards, thereby reducing the risk of accidents and enhancing overall passenger safety during driving.
These 6DoF sensors have various applications, serving as a crucial component in systems that improve vehicle safety. They can detect sudden maneuvers or abrupt halts, promptly signaling the Electronic Stability Control (ESC) or Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) to help the driver maintain control of the vehicle.
In two-wheeler applications, the 6-in-1 inertial sensors contribute to the Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU) module, enabling accurate detection of posture and motion for functions such as traction control, riding mode, race ABS, semi-active suspension systems, and adaptive lighting, supporting safe and comfortable cruising.
In autonomous driving, the 6DoF inertial sensors enhance the performance of Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS), including lane departure warning and collision avoidance systems, by providing precise insights into the vehicle’s position and dynamics. The sensor also supports Vehicle-to-X (V2X) communication, including Vehicle-to-Vehicle (V2V) and Vehicle-to-Control Centre communication, essential for intelligent traffic management system communication during emergency situations.
Narayan Kumar, Divisional Director – Industrial Devices Division, Panasonic Life Solutions India, emphasized the company’s commitment to safety, performance, and durability. He highlighted the growing demand for high-precision inertial sensors in the evolving Automotive sector, extending from passenger vehicles to the two-wheeler market in India. Panasonic’s 6DoF sensor aims to meet these evolving requirements, addressing the multifaceted needs of modern automotive and industrial systems, from safety applications to advanced control systems.
