NineSigma Seeks Technology Proposals for Next Gen Automotive Safety Products
IVsource.net
9 December 2003

NineSigma, representing Delphi Corporation, is seeking proposals for new technologies for sensing systems (e.g., vision, radar, etc.) for automotive safety applications.  Awards for selected projects may range up to $200K.  INITIAL RESPONSES DUE DECEMBER 15.

NineSigma, representing Delphi Corporation,  is seeking technical and cost proposals for new technologies for sensing systems (e.g., vision, radar, etc.) for automotive safety applications.

NineSigma (www.ninesigma.com) describes itself as an organization that matches technology seekers with innovations, in a way that is faster, more effective, and lower cost versus conventional methods.

According to the NineSigma announcement, the objective of this automotive safety RFP is to identify multiple development partners representing a broad range of expertise, including system approaches, optics experts, imaging technologies, and image processing algorithms. Ideally, new technologies, systems, and software will help Delphi optimize imaging and sensing systems.  Of particular interest are technologies that combine the advantages of vision and radar systems, as well as new advances in "terahertz" and mid-infrared imaging, or other sensing  technologies.

Examples of next-generation automotive safety applications being targeted for development include a familiar list:

• Adaptive cruise control

• Back up aids

• Collision warning and mitigation

• Forward collision warning

• Lane tracking and lane departure warning

• Roadway departure warning

• Side detection warning

The RFP notes that Delphi's Integrated Safety Systems strategy depends on having a portfolio of sensors available for use in sensing objects both inside and outside a vehicle.  Sensors currently being used include radars, visible and near-infrared cameras, and ultrasonic sensors.  In order to address gaps in existing sensing technology, new sensors that can do the following are of interest:

• See through fog and other inclement weather.

• Not be susceptible to natural forms of radiation such as bright sunlight (e.g., cameras can saturate in sunlight).

• Detect people within complicated scenes.

• Detect mass at a distance (e.g., to determine whether an object in front of a vehicle is an empty box or a box with a refrigerator in it).

• Detect multiple targets (not just the closest target).

• Sensors should be able to detect objects at distances from 0.5 meters to 200 meters.

• Other general requirements:

• Small

• Non-Contact

• Manufacturable in high-volumes

• Safe

• Meets automotive environmental requirements (temperature, humidity, vibration, etc.)

Three page abstracts are due to NineSigma by December 15.  Selected organizations will be contacted to develop an in-depth proposal for potential award of Phase I contracts.  Anticipated project budgets for Phase I are in the range of $50K to $200K.  The NineSigma announcement notes that “successful demonstration in Phase 1 can lead to further design development including design for manufacture.”

The RFP (#30337-06-7) may be downloaded at the NineSigma website, or go directly to it at www.ninesigma.com/mx/30337-06-7/rfp.html.

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For More Information ...

... contact Dr. Kevin Stark at kstark@ninesigma.com. 

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