A new article for our blog series “Three questions for”. This time answers Maximilian Dötsch, the Junior Product Manager at InnoSenT, will answer three important questions about the latest radar system. The next product for the iSYS-50xx series is in the starting blocks. The iSYS-5005 is configured for a near-range detection area of 15 metres. But aren’t there already radar solutions from InnoSenT for this distance? Radar-based motion detectors are real classics and can be found everywhere in everyday life, can’t they?

It’s true. But the new radar system offers far more than mere motion detection. Junior Product Manager Maximilian Dötsch informs us about the product features, their applications, and what challenges there were during development.

For what tasks and applications is InnoSenT developing the product?

MD: We originally developed the radar system in order to expand our product series in the security sector and offer a near-range solution. We were pursuing the objective to offer an affordable and high-performance system with advanced technical features for the security sector. For this purpose, we utilised the 24-GHz frequency band, which can be used worldwide and exhibits good technical preconditions for development. It features clear benefits in comparison to existing technologies such as PIR, thus enabling security surveillance to be optimised.

During product development, we realised that the new system also has potential as a door opener. Driven by customer feedback and demand, our development team reacted quickly and implemented the additional requirements. The system thus covers two different areas of application. Among other things, it is in use as an alarm system and for the purpose of on-demand operation of doors and gates.

Despite the different tasks that the system handles, both applications require the same radar hardware. The developers adapted the firmware to coordinate it to the specific requirements. The result is two different application modes. One for security and another for door openers. Customers can choose between the two variants with ease, depending on the intended use. The product can be used stand-alone or in combination with other technology.

What highlights does the iSYS-5005 offer?

MD: With it, we provide customers with greater near-range functionality. For the first time, more than the mere detection of movements is possible with such applications. Our MIMO system supplies expanded information about objects and boasts a three-dimensional radar resolution. That previously was the exclusive domain of high-end or perimeter and area surveillance systems.

The technical highlight here is the angular resolution in azimuth. In combination with the integrated signal analysis, it is possible to map the movement behaviour of objects. This way, the system reliably differentiates multiple moving objects from each other, locates them spatially and precisely tracks them within the detection range. Users receive data such as speed, distance, position (X and Y coordinates), and the direction of movement and calls up this data via the UART interface in the form of an object list.

Using this comprehensive information, it is possible to classify objects as person or vehicle and to specify the respective intended use of the near-range detection application. The system also features many filter functions, such as wind movements or small animals.

All this optimises the performance with respect to reliability and accuracy. False alarms are noticeably reduced. This is particularly evident in comparison to conventional motion detectors. Depending on the selected application mode, the sensor tackles different challenges and boasts application-specific benefits.

 As a security system, the iSYS-5005 warns of moving or stationary objects or people within the detection range. As a near-range sensor, it is ideal for monitoring smaller areas or limited infrastructure, such as narrowly spaced building complexes, shops, or private households. The product offers a very useful function here: In the GUI, customers can define certain areas in order to specify the coverage range in a snap. They individually define in what area the system triggers the alarm or ignores the movements of objects. This way, it is possible to ignore the traffic of an adjacent road, for instance. Or to receive a signal only if people enter a certain part of the premises. The radar resolution and the tracking feature of the system enable multiple objects and people to be precisely located and differentiated. Not only is their position, but also their movement history able to be recorded. In addition to improved detection and extensive radar information, it also plays another important role for security: It detects attempts to block off the system thanks to its anti-blocking detection. Users are warned as soon as the sensor is covered by an object.

 Other functions are, of course, important when the system is used in a door opener. The system detects whether people are approaching the door and then opens or closes it. In contrast to PIR sensors, the new system can ignore cross traffic, i.e. passers-by. It also detects the direction of movement and measures the speed of objects. Using the measurement results provided, the estimated time of arrival (ETA) can also be calculated. This increases the efficiency of door automation, because then door opening and closing are timed optimally. The iSYS-5005 in particularly demonstrates its strengths when the aim is to keep the door open as briefly as possible, so to close it quickly. Irrelevant events are ruled out via filter functions. The more accurate recording improves the application’s performance. This reduces accidental or erroneous actuation of the door control.

Why did no such solution already exist before?

MD: The MIMO approach and three-dimensional radar resolution are not completely new. They are already integrated in many radar applications.

However, they can’t be incorporated as easily for in near-range detection. Until now, the technology had not yet been available to the sector. Further development work was first necessary.

This is because despite the clear added value, the question of price cannot be ignored. The new sensor solution competes against low-cost motion detectors. Therefore, InnoSenT had to achieve as affordable of a price as possible, despite better technology. This presents a challenge in the area of radar sensors. With our radar experience and thanks to strong demand, we have managed to work cost-efficiently. With the iSYS-5005, we offer maximum functionality at an attractive price.

Thank you for this interview!

picture: ©korisbo by adobe stock