Japan-based Alps Alpine has tapped Israel-based Inuitive for the supply of the latter’s NU4000 Edge AI processor for integration into the former’s obstacle detection unit, which is being used by Fukushin Electrics in its next-generation electric cart dubbed POLCAR SPX-1.
POLCAR is touted as the first and most advanced step into smart mobility systems, promising a safer and more secure electric cart experience.
The NU4000 is a 3D Vision and AI processor designed for use in smart devices that need to see as well as understand the world around them. Applications include Augmented and Virtual Reality, Robotics, Drones and Artificial Intelligence of Things (AIoT).
Built into the obstacle detection unit of the POLCAR, Inuitive’s NU4000 detects in advance potential obstacles such as people, objects, and gutters. The cart then issues a sound and light alert to the driver, while automatically decelerating and stopping to prevent collision.
“Inuitive’s NU4000 combines 3D and AI, enabling Alps Alpine’s obstacle detection system to filter out irrelevant information while fulfilling its primary mission – preventing collisions,” said Kenichi Kitatani, Power and Mobility Project manager at Alps Alpine.
“Until now the sole option was to separately use a 3D-only system that requires heavy processing to generate relevant information, or an AI-only system that detects many classes of objects,” said Kitatani. “While high sensitivity results good in detection, it can also cause overload with hazards that are better ignored. The NU4000 offers the best of both worlds, in one compact unit.”
Inuitive founder and CEO Shlomo Gadot said that having successfully completed a series of rigorous tests and checks to ensure compliance with the most stringent standards and regulatory requirements, the selection by Alps Alpine for this project is a strong validation of their technology.
