Asahi Kasei hopes to begin mass production of chips as early as October 2024 amid tightening global regulations aimed at preventing accidents, according to Nikkei Asia.
Developed by Asahi Kasei Microdevices, a subsidiary of Asahi Kasei, the AK5818 chip uses millimeter waves to detect objects. The Canadian startup Pontosense is providing expertise to Asahi Kasei Microdevices on detection methods.
The new chip excels in distinguishing between humans and objects and is said to have an accuracy rate exceeding 75% compared to current products. Its proprietary frequency control technology allows the AK5818 chip to detect not only shapes but also subtle movements, such as a child’s breathing.
Asahi Kasei develops the AK5818 chip to enhance vehicle systems’ ability to detect whether a child has been left inside – (Photo: Nikkei Asia).
The AK5818 chip is set to be unveiled at CES, the world’s largest consumer technology trade show, which will officially open on January 9, 2024, in Las Vegas, USA. Attendees at CES 2024 will be able to experience the detection technology from Pontosense firsthand. Asahi Kasei hopes to impress automobile manufacturers and related suppliers.
The European car safety rating will include whether vehicles are equipped with sensors to detect children left behind (starting in 2025), while Japan mandates the installation of safety devices on school buses.
According to research company Global Information, the global market for such detection systems is projected to increase to $83.13 billion by 2030, a 27-fold increase compared to 2022.
With the demand for millimeter-wave detection technology expected to rise, Asahi Kasei aims to triple the sales of related products from fiscal year 2023 to 2030.
American and European chip manufacturers lead in producing chips for detecting children left behind in cars. Asahi Kasei hopes to leverage its sensor technologies to penetrate a market that already has major players like Infineon Technologies (Germany) and Texas Instruments (USA).
Additionally, Asahi Kasei expects this chip to be used in advanced monitoring systems.
