Piaggio Fast Forward (PFF), a robotics company active in the development of smart following technology, has deployed a new sensor technology for implementation not only in consumer and business robots but also in scooters and motorcycles.
PFF, based in Boston, Massachusetts, had previously focused on advancing innovation in smart following technology and smart behavior implementation in robots and machines, but in a strategic move last year, began developing a custom radar sensor module for use in Piaggio Group motorcycles and scooters with the intention to provide the technology to other companies in the future.
PFF’s hardware-software modules are said to offer robust monitoring in all environmental and lighting conditions. PFF has awarded a supply contract for the modules’ Radar-on-Chip (RoC) to Vayyar Imaging, marking the deployment of the industry’s first ever 4D imaging radar-based motorcycle safety platform.
The complete sensor package has been developed, built and supplied by PFF for mass production in Piaggio Group motorcycles’ Advanced Rider Assistance Systems (ARAS). It uses Vayyar’s mmWave 4D imaging RoC sensor, enabling multiple ARAS functions such as blind spot detection (BSD), lane change assist (LCA) and forward collision warning (FCW), with a single sensor supporting a range of over 100m, and an ultra-wide field-of-view. PFF robots incorporating the radar technology are expected to be released at the end of 2021, with motorcycle models equipped with the PFF sensor module launching in 2022.
“PFF is creating advanced technology products for robots and motorcycles that detect and measure objects in our surroundings to provide the information we need for mapping, object detection and control, regardless of lighting, weather and other environmental factors. We have chosen to develop our sensing applications with Vayyar’s 4D imaging radar technology. We are excited to work with such a professional, passionate team, to develop innovative new solutions that provide our customers with a better product experience,” said Greg Lynn, CEO at Piaggio Fast Forward.