TDK and Uhnder deliver world-class localization with digital imaging radar for autonomous platforms

TDK Corporation (TSE: 6762) announces the partnership of Trusted Positioning Inc. (TPI), a TDK Group Company and leader in inertial navigation software, and Uhnder, a leader in digital radar technology.

TPI and Uhnder have partnered to develop a localization reference design with world-class accuracy and performance with Uhnder’s software defined digital radar sensor and TPI’s AUTO positioning software. The combined solution provides lane-level positioning accuracy in urban areas where GNSS fails, and under all weather and lighting conditions where cameras and lidars face environmental challenges.

TPI is comprised of a world-class engineering team with a sensor fusion pedigree of integrating inertial sensors, GNSS and radar. They have been solving some of the most difficult location problems for decades.

Uhnder’s innovative, fully digital 4D software-defined imaging radar technology uses Digital Code Modulation (DCM) to replace traditional analog frequency modulation. This breakthrough patent pending architecture enables unrivaled angular resolution and interference rejection. Uhnder’s use of DCM also allows High Contrast Resolution (HCR) to resolve juxtaposed objects previously undetectable by traditional radar sensors, especially in long distances. Customers that require best-in-class radar for autonomous systems are fueling demand for Uhnder’s chip and system solutions.

“Using Uhnder imaging radar, we can now apply our sophisticated positioning algorithms and provide customers with unmatched accuracy that was not previously possible with other radars,” said Chris Goodall, Managing Director of TPI. “Autonomous platforms require accuracy, reliable and integrity in all environments without compromise. Operating within a different frequency spectrum, radar sensors have long promised a new perception input that complements cameras and lidar for positioning integrity, but few imaging radars have delivered on implementation. The Uhnder radar sensor, combined with our AUTO software, is the first system to deliver on this promise.”

Uhnder’s technology platform impressed TDK Ventures, the corporate venture capital arm of TDK. “TDK Ventures recognized the pioneering possibilities of a digital imaging radar-on-chip solution and identified the potential for incremental strategic learnings above the ongoing engagement with TPI, and thus participated in Uhnder’s recent Series C funding round,” said Andrew Maywah, Investment Director at TDK Ventures.

“TPI’s sophisticated algorithm in combination with Uhnder’s unique DCM technology, which provides best in class high contrast resolution, enables unprecedented localization accuracy,” said Max Liberman, Vice President of Chips at Uhnder. “The combination of both technologies provides a level of accuracy for positioning that will be required in autonomous vehicles in the future.”

The partnership between Uhnder and TPI will enable end customers to use the reference design to quickly incorporate Uhnder radar with TPI AUTO software to obtain lane-level positioning accuracy in all environments and progress their products to market quicker.

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