Freescale provides embedded intelligence for Takata SafeTraK Lane Departure Warning system

The SafeTraK LDW system features a monocular camera mounted on the truck’s windshield to monitor lane markings. The system alerts the driver with an audible warning if the vehicle is veering into another lane or if there’s any degraded or erratic driving behavior within the lane. Freescale collaborated with Takata in the development of the monocular system, providing critical microelectronic components. The system incorporates Freescale’s 16-bit S12 microcontroller (MCU) and an MCZ33810 analog output driver IC. Takata’s SafeTraK 3 system is in production now and shipping to leading heavy truck manufacturers and fleet operators worldwide.

“We’ve designed our new SafeTraK 3 system to address the majority of fatal crash types involving driver fatigue and other instances where drivers fail to stay in their lane,” said Dave Martin, SafeTraK account manager at Takata Electronics. “Collaborating with Freescale and using their advanced silicon technology has made our latest lane departure warning system even more robust, providing truck drivers with an additional safety control measure designed to help save lives.”

Takata’s SafeTraK 3 LDW system is a single-box design that simplifies installation and offers improved performance compared to previous LDW models. In addition to lane detection warning features, SafeTraK 3 includes a new “drowsy driver” warning system designed to detect erratic or degraded driving based on weaving behavior associated with driver drowsiness. Takata’s SafeTraK 3 LDW system is designed to address crash types that account for 70 percent of fatal crashes, while also reducing accident costs for the commercial trucking industry.

“Freescale is committed to developing automotive electronics solutions that help enhance driver safety, reduce crash risks and avert life-threatening accidents,” said Steve Nelson, manager of global automotive marketing at Freescale Semiconductor. “Takata’s SafeTraK system based on Freescale’s robust silicon technology will be a welcome safety feature for commercial trucks around the world.”

The SafeTraK 3 System is designed to meet stringent automotive and commercial truck performance standards and certifications, such as IS0 14001, ISO 9001/2000 and TS 16949. SafeTraK 3 systems are shipped to customers only after all of the industry certification and testing criteria are met.