World-class localisation with digital imaging radar for autonomous platforms

TDK Corporation has announced the partnership of Trusted Positioning Inc (TPI), a TDK Group Company, and Uhnder. The companies have partnered to develop a localisation reference design with world-class accuracy and performance with Uhnder’s software-defined digital radar sensor and TPI’s AUTO positioning software. The combined solution offers lane-level positioning accuracy in urban areas where GNSS fails, and under all weather and lighting conditions where cameras and lidars face environmental challenges.

Uhnder’s innovative, fully digital 4D software-defined imaging radar technology uses DCM to replace traditional analog frequency modulation. This breakthrough patent-pending architecture allows unrivalled angular resolution and interference rejection. The company’s use of DCM also provides HCR to resolve juxtaposed objects previously undetectable by conventional radar sensors, particularly in long distances.

“Using Uhnder imaging radar, we can now apply our sophisticated positioning algorithms and provide customers with unmatched accuracy that was not previously possible with other radars,” said Chris Goodall, managing director of TPI. “Autonomous platforms require accuracy, reliable and integrity in all environments without compromise. Operating within a different frequency spectrum, radar sensors have long promised a new perception input that complements cameras and lidar for positioning integrity, but few imaging radars have delivered on implementation. The Uhnder radar sensor, combined with our AUTO software, is the first system to deliver on this promise.”

Uhnder’s technology platform impressed TDK Ventures, the corporate venture capital arm of TDK. “TDK Ventures recognised the pioneering possibilities of a digital imaging radar-on-chip solution and identified the potential for incremental strategic learnings above the ongoing engagement with TPI, and thus participated in Uhnder’s recent Series C funding round,” said Andrew Maywah, investment director at TDK Ventures.

“TPI’s sophisticated algorithm in combination with Uhnder’s unique DCM technology, which provides best in class high contrast resolution, enables unprecedented localisation accuracy,” said Max Liberman, vice president of Chips at Uhnder. “The combination of both technologies provides a level of accuracy for positioning that will be required in autonomous vehicles in the future.”