Abstract: An object sensing system is capable of masking certain detected objects such that the system does not provide an alarm. Initially, a projected path of the vehicle is determined by using a current steering angle of the vehicle. Next, a desired warning distance is determined based upon the current steering angle. Then, a current distance to a sensed object, as derived from an object sensor, is determined. Finally, an alarm is provided only if the sensed object is within the desired warning distance.

Abstract: Side detection radar utilized on a host vehicle for covering a blind spot in a vehicle mirror view produces alert commands resulting in signals which have gaps due to poor radar reflectivity of portions of a target. To fill these gaps to produce a steady alert signal when a target vehicle is in radar view and to extend the perceived zone of coverage, a variable sustain time is added to each alert signal which exceeds a threshold value. The sustain time varies as an inverse function of the relative vehicle speed and the threshold value varies as an inverse function of vehicle speed. If the alert signal is shorter than the threshold value, then a minimized hold time can be applied.

Abstract: A radar system for detecting hazardous objects has a transceiver including a transmitting antenna for transmitting microwave power. For a side detection system, power transmission is available when the vehicle is moving forward. A signal processor receives a pulsed vehicle speed signal and a reverse signal and is programmed to terminate transmission when no speed pulse is received for a preset time or when the reverse signal is present. The transmission is terminated by removing power from the transceiver or by rerouting the microwave power from the antenna to an internal calibration circuit. Radar transmission is re-enabled when the vehicle begins to move forward again. For a rear detection system, radar transmissions are enabled when the reverse signal is present.