Obstacle Detection
MARLEX Engineering specializes in the design and deployment of systems capable of detecting objects or persons inside a defined area. We employ a variety of different sensing technologies ranging from non-contact approaches such as ultrasonics, vision (camera), radar, laser and RFID transponder, to force sensors that provide information about an object on contact. All these methods of sensing can be used separately or integrated together to provide more information about an object.
Detection can be used to issue a warning, as in the case of a system that detects obstacles or people in the path of a reversing vehicle. Sensor data can also be collected and used by a central processor for use in autonomous vehicle navigation. Alternatively detection can be used to either enable or disable (lock-out) equipment when a person or object is present.
We have developed expertise in obstacle detection using multiple ultrasonic sensors and are currently developing a system that uses Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology to warn of the presence of personnel in the blind spots of construction vehicles.
Read more about our obstacle detection experience in the links below.
Vehicle Park-Assist
MARLEX has developed many custom parking-assist and reverse-assist solutions utilizing a variety of single and multi-sensor configurations and beam shapes. Our robust designs have seen widespread use through their installation in applications such as:
- passenger vehicles
- moving vans
- refueling vehicles
- heavy-duty construction equipment
- specialty military vehicles
Our patented sensing and signal processing technology allows our park-assist solutions to operate in extreme environments where they are routinely exposed to ice, snow and dirt.
Integrated Camera Light
Camera images are useful for passively displaying obstacles in a vehicle’s blind spots. Unfortunately, they require the driver to actively view a monitor, in turn distracting them from their normal driving procedure. MARLEX Engineering Inc. has recognized the need to merge ultrasonic and radar based obstacle detection with newly developed mini-camera technologies. We are currently developing active obstacle sensing technology that will not only audibly alert the driver of a potential danger, but will also highlight that danger on-screen in a camera/monitor equipped vehicle.
A key component to providing drivers with an actual view into their blind-spot is the integration of a camera into their vehicle. MARLEX has developed an Integrated Camera Light for retrofit into existing Dodge Sprinter Van high-mount stoplight applications. We are currently designing other integrated Camera Light configurations to provide vehicle operators with an unprecedented view of their vehicle’s surroundings.
Instrumented Bumper for Autonomous Vehicle
MARLEX Engineering Inc. bid on and won a contract with the Canadian Department of National Defence to develop an Instrumented Bumper for use on an Autonomous Robotic Vehicle. The Instrumented Bumper was developed for the Tactical Vehicle Systems Section of Defence Research and Development Canada - Suffield (DRDC-S) for use on an Unmanned Ground Vehicle (UGV).
One of the requirements for the Instrumented Bumper is to provide a non-contact means for the autonomous vehicle to detect obstacles that are close to the front of the vehicle where they may not be visible to other longer-range navigational sensors. Another requirement is to provide a force sensing system so the vehicle can test the resistance of obstacles in a chosen path by gradually increasing the applied force applied against the obstacle.
Dock Locator
MARLEX has been able to utilize long-range narrow-beam ultrasonic sensing technology to provide an effective means for the location of loading docks and ramps during freight transport vehicle reversing operations. An LED light bar mounted to the side of the vehicle provides the operator with visual feedback of the bumper distance from the loading dock. The use of this technology has been proven to reduce the occurrence of damage to both the vehicle and the loading dock.
Presence Sensing Technologies
MARLEX ultrasonic obstacle detection technology has proven itself in the harshest of automotive environments. This same technology has been adapted to other applications for automatically enabling or disabling (lock-out) of equipment when the presence of an object or person is detected.
MARLEX Engineering Inc. has developed several versions of single and dual-sensor Presence-Sensing Steps. These steps are currently in use in the Ontario cities of Oshawa, Whitby and Guelph as a safety feature on side-loading garbage trucks to disable the packer mechanism’s forward motion if a person is detected on the step.
We are continuously customizing our presence sensing technology for use in new and unique applications.
