Motorcycle Blind Spot Detection

College of Engineering UtahStateUniversity

Problem

Vision issues on some sports bike

Motorcycles are small and hard to see

  • Motorcycles have small mirrors and limited rear-view sight
  • Looking behind requires the rider to turn their head and take their eyes off the road
  • Motorcycles are small and hard to see. This cannot be changed but the awareness of the rider can be increased

Solution

  • The system is able to detect vehicles in blindspots and vehicles veering into the motorcycle’s lane
  • The system is able to notify the driver through LEDs mounted on the handlebar

System

system diagram

Methods

Sensors: Lidar vs Radar (why lidar)

  Lidar Radar
Accuracy 5 3
Angle 5 1
Range 3 4
Overall 13 8
  • Requirements
    • Extreme temperature
    • Accurate
    • Range
  • Control Unit: STM32F103C8T6
    • 72Mhz operating frequency
    • UART communication

Conclusion

  • This system provides a safer way for motorcycle riders to know what is behind them
  • The system allows the driver to be more aware of their surroundings
  • The rider can make better decisions while maintaining safety
Motorcycle blind spot monitor hardware

Bigger Picture

  • Help decrease motorcycle accidents
  • Increase rider awareness

What we Learned

  • The importance of choosing the right sensor
  • Always keep the end user in mind