Russian autonomous driving company launches miniature radar sensor weighing only 40 grams

It is learned that Russian autonomous driving technology company Cognitive Pilot has developed a miniature radar sensor called Cognitive Mini Radar for autonomous vehicles. It weighs only 40 grams and is the size of a toothpick.

Image source: Cognitive Pilot

The sensor operates at frequencies of 77 to 88 GHz, or 60 to 64 GHz, depending on the model, and has a range of up to 100 meters. While the sensor is designed to see around vehicles, it can also be used in other robotics and can be installed on multicopters to track blind spots and issue collision warnings.

Additionally, the radar is able to operate in all weather conditions (such as rain, fog and snow) and at any time of day or night, providing precise speed, direction and coordinate information of objects within the observation area and transmitting this information to the main computer of the autonomous vehicle.

Olga Uskova, CEO of Cognitive Pilot, said: “We are developing our own sensor line for autonomous vehicles and are pleased to be able to mass produce our new radar, which is very affordable at just a few dozen dollars and is very small and suitable for a wide range of applications.”

Currently, Cognitive Pilot is making preliminary preparations for mass production of this radar sensor. The first customers who can use Cognitive Mini Radar include Russian transportation organizations, international automobile manufacturers and OEM parts suppliers.

Cognitive Pilot is a joint venture between Sberbank and Cognitive Technologies. The company develops components for self-driving cars and also develops automatic control systems for agricultural machinery, trains and trams. Its clients include state railway operator Russian Railways, agribusiness Rusagro and South Korean auto parts maker Hyundai Mobis.