Mitsubishi Electric Announces New Automotive In-Cabin System with Features Focused on Safety and Connectivity
NORTHVILLE, Mich. April 28, 2023 – Mitsubishi Electric Corporation (TOKYO: 6503) today introduced project Jabiru, the next-generation in-cabin system that seamlessly integrates the user and vehicle. From advanced interior and exterior sensors that continuously monitor the outside environment and all occupants, to a customizable cluster and center display, the system provides high levels of safety and connectivity.
“Our in-cabin system balances groundbreaking features that optimize the performance and potential of the in-cabin system,” said Mark Rakoski, vice president of engineering, Mitsubishi Electric Automotive America, Inc. (MEAA). “Many of these safety and connectivity technologies are expected to be in production vehicles within the next two to five years.”
Safety is the forefront of Filament Labs
Filament Labs, an innovation group of Mitsubishi Electric, developed the in-cabin system that prioritizes user safety and well-being. It is optimized for performance by leveraging an ASIL B-capable multi-domain controller, which is responsible for managing infotainment features, the control cluster, and the occupant monitoring system (OMS).
The system utilizes advanced machine learning techniques to detect on- and off-road hazards such as pedestrians, potholes, and traffic cones, and provide real-time information to drivers, enabling them to make informed decisions and stay safe on the road. Additionally, the system monitors weather-related road conditions by leveraging up-to-the-minute, accurate road-condition data and exterior sensors.
The cockpit employs an in-cabin monitoring system that monitors and analyzes the driver and occupants’ status. The system utilizes a suite of sensors such as cameras, radars, thermal cameras, and directional microphone arrays to provide additional monitoring capabilities. It can detect and notify users if a seat belt is unbuckled, regardless of their location in the vehicle. It also monitors body temperature, drowsiness, phone usage, hand placement on the wheel, and smoking. In case of an emergency, such as an accident or a drowsy driver, the infotainment center displays the driver’s health information, including blood type and allergies, to assist emergency responders.
The in-cabin micro-movement radar technology provides enhanced safety by monitoring all movement inside the cabin. It can differentiate between an adult or a child occupant and notify a connected device while automatically activating the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system if a child is mistakenly left alone in the vehicle.
Filament Labs developed the system to ensure driver and passenger safety while preserving the system’s unique personality. To achieve this, the system turns on Focus Mode if it detects the driver is distracted, helping the driver stay focused on the road by limiting human-machine interface (HMI) interactions and providing access only to the main in-cabin features like HVAC, media, and navigation.
Convenience and personalization enhance the driving experience
Project Jabiru, the latest project from Filament Labs, takes personalization to the next level by allowing users to tailor their in-cabin environment with a fully customizable cluster and center display, as well as ambient lighting. The system also boasts a diverse selection of navigation map styles and layouts that are easily customizable and can be scaled across multiple screens. With a range of options to choose from, users can tailor the navigation experience to their personal preferences, ensuring a smooth and efficient journey.
Additionally, when it’s time to leave the vehicle, the system provides a seamless and convenient parking solution. Using a high-definition locator (HDL) it automatically recommends available nearby parking structures and can detect the vehicle’s exact space number. It also allows for cashless, in-vehicle payments, ensuring a seamless and hassle-free experience for the user.
“The integration of safety and convenience for all vehicle occupants continues to be at the forefront of current and future developments,” Rakoski said.