CMOS technology will result in new vehicle safety applications, says Frost & Sullivan

Citation

(2001), "CMOS technology will result in new vehicle safety applications, says Frost & Sullivan", Sensor Review, Vol. 21 No. 3. https://doi.org/10.1108/sr.2001.08721cab.003

CMOS technology will result in new vehicle safety applications, says Frost & Sullivan

CMOS technology will result in new vehicle safety applications, says Frost & SullivanKeywords: CMOS, Machine vision, Cameras

The rise in sales of sport utility vehicles (SUVs) has increased concerns about their safety. The emergence of complementary metal oxide semiconductor (CMOS) sensors, however, could be the key to alleviating such fears.

"The automobile industry, as a whole, has unlimited possibilities for image sensors, especially CMOS sensors," says Frost & Sullivan Industry Analyst Nicole Wagner.

New strategic analysis from Frost & Sullivan (http://frost2001.frost.com), World Image Sensor Markets, reveals the entire image sensor industry generated revenues of $2.4 billion in 2000. Frost & Sullivan projects revenues to top the $6.5 billion mark by 2007.

SUVs are designed for occasional off-road use, resulting in larger vehicles with higher centers of gravity. While this aids in off-road handling, it is detrimental for street driving, increasing the chances of rollover accidents and inflicting more damage to passenger cars when involved in otherwise minor fender-benders. SUV manufacturers are turning to image sensors to improve safety features such as controlled airbag deployment and collision avoidance systems. Wenger says:

The overall development of CMOS image sensors in the automotive industry can increase the safety of motor vehicles and especially SUVs. The automotive industry is anticipating the use of CMOS technology in its production line of SUVs and other vehicles around the year 2004.

Auto manufacturers deal in high volumes and require sensors that are inexpensive and easy to implement into their applications. CMOS sensors offer automakers an advantage; they are easier to fabricate and do not need specialized production plants. They are also very small and easy to customize, all of which leads to lower production costs and lower unit prices. Wagner says:

CMOS image sensors are more suited for automotive applications due to the low cost of the sensor. The cost of the sensor is especially important in applications that are manufactured in large volumes with individual sensors needed in each application.