A Multiple-Input Multiple-Output Radar-Based Rider Assistance System for Personal Light Electric Vehicles

Abstract

<div class="section abstract"><div class="htmlview paragraph">The use of personal light electric vehicles (PLEVs), such as electric scooters, has rapidly increased in recent years. However, their widespread use has raised concerns about rider safety due to their vulnerability in shared traffic spaces. To address this issue, this paper presents a radar-based rider assistance system aimed at enhancing the safety of PLEV riders. The system consists of an adaptive feedback system and a single-channel anti-lock braking system (ABS). The adaptive feedback system uses multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) radar sensors to detect nearby objects and provide real-time warnings to the rider through haptic, visual, and acoustic signals. The system takes into account traffic density and uses online data to warn about obscured objects, thereby improving the rider’s situational awareness. Results from testing the feedback system show that it effectively detects potential collisions and provides warning signals, reducing the risk of accidents. The ABS is designed to prevent dangerous braking scenarios in single-track vehicles, such as rear-wheel lift-off and front-wheel locking. A virtual model was created to simulate critical riding situations and determine suitable control parameters. Testing of the MiniMAB ABS in real road tests using these parameters showed that it effectively prevented rear-wheel lift-off on high-grip roads and front-wheel locking on low-friction surfaces during emergency braking, improving riding stability and steerability. In conclusion, the results of this study indicate that the use of the proposed rider assistance system has the potential to greatly contribute to the safe and conflict-free shared use of traffic spaces. The system provides real-time warnings to the rider, thereby reducing the risk of accidents. The implementation of the ABS improves riding stability and steerability, providing a safer and more pleasant riding experience. The system offers a new and improved solution to the growing concerns surrounding the safety of PLEV riders.</div></div>