Practical techniques for improving sensor fusion accuracy In addition to the usual design techniques for improving sensor performance such as (1) calibration to correct errors including multi-point calibration for higher accuracy, and regular recalibration to correct for drift over time; (2) signal conditioning to correct for errors like offset and linearity, amplified signals for improved signal-to-noise […]
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Key Considerations for integrating LiDAR and radar data for robust perception: part 1
For autonomous vehicle (AV) applications, both radar and LiDAR (light detection and ranging) are often used in addition to high-definition cameras and other sensors. The proper fusion of the output from these devices enables the detection of obstacles, identification of lane markings, and the accurate recognition of other vehicles and pedestrians. The radio waves (typically […]
Understanding and interfacing with RTDs: part 2
This part transitions from RTD principles to ICs available for interfacing. ICs simplify the RTD interface As with their other resistor-based temperature-sensing components, the RTD looks simple to use. After all, it is a two-terminal resistor with no parasitics of consequence in the relatively slow-moving world of temperature sensing. Nonetheless, as with thermistors and many […]
Understanding and interfacing with RTDs: part 1
This versatile temperature sensor is one of many viable alternatives. Temperature is the most widely sensed real-world parameter, and knowing the temperature with some combination of accuracy, precision, and repeatability is critical in many applications. A widely used choice for the temperature sensor is the resistance temperature detector (RTD), a precision metal element usually made […]
Hall-effect sensors made simple
A Hall-effect sensor is a transducer that converts a magnetic field directly into a usable electrical voltage. It enables engineers to perform non-contact measurement of shaft rotation, detect the proximity of a lid, or monitor the current in a high-power motor drive. From a system-level perspective, a Hall-effect sensor is a complete transducer that bridges […]
Design World presents the 2025 LEAP Awards winners: Switches & Sensors
In its eighth year, Design World’s LEAP Awards showcase the best engineering innovations across several design categories. This wouldn’t be possible without the commitment and support of the engineering community. The editorial team assembles OEM design engineers and academics each year to create an independent judging panel. Below is their selection for this year’s LEAP […]
Are additional sensors needed for Waymos?
When well over 1” of rain fell rather quickly in various parts of Phoenix recently, areas prone to flooding accumulated much more. As one of the highest amounts of rain to fall within the past seven years, it provided a new scenario to Waymo robotaxis. Several of the driverless vehicles confronted “Do Not Enter When […]
Ultrasonic sensing part 2: dynamic fluid flow
This second part looks at measuring fluid flow rates instead of object presence. Find part one here. Sensing fluid flow Beyond basic object detection, ultrasonic transducers are used for non-invasive, non-contact measurement of liquid and gas flow rates (velocity). For these applications, the transducers operate at higher frequencies, typically above 200 kHz, to provide the […]
Automotive sensor requirements for software-defined vehicles: latency, resolution, and zonal architecture
The automotive industry’s shift toward software-defined vehicles (SDV) and electrification is forcing a fundamental rethink of development processes, component specifications, and cross-industry collaboration. During a recent technical briefing, three engineers from TE Connectivity outlined how these changes are impacting everything from 30-year-old Stage-Gate processes to sensor latency requirements and the implementation of zonal architecture across […]
Ultrasonic sensing part 1: static presence
Ultrasonic energy is widely used to sense the presence of nearby objects and even determine their distance if needed, as well as to measure fluid flow rates in industrial and scientific applications. The advantages of ultrasound are that it is relatively easy to apply, is accurate, has very minimal safety or risk factors, carries no […]
