In 2025, specialists from the St. Petersburg Electrotechnical University "LETI" developed a prototype of an automated module for detecting obstacles on electric scooters and other personal mobility devices (PMD).
The system is based on a set of sensors: rangefinders, a camera, and an ultrasonic distance sensor, as well as obstacle recognition algorithms. The device is compact and can be installed in the scooter's steering column without restricting the operator's movement.
The module weighs 360 grams and measures 10 by 20 centimeters. The sensors provide a viewing angle of 108 degrees from above and 42 degrees from the side relative to the horizon, providing a complete picture of the surrounding environment. The information is updated every 0.7 seconds, allowing the system to smoothly reduce speed or stop the scooter when obstacles appear.
An energy-efficient single-board computer powered by the scooter's battery is used for control. A specialized voltage stabilization board has been developed for stable operation and connection of additional devices.
In the future, scientists plan to expand the functionality of the system, conduct additional tests, and optimize production. The development is designed to improve road safety and enhance the comfort of using personal mobility devices.
The growing popularity of electric scooters has led to an increase in their number to 192,000 in the possession of Russian operating companies. However, the widespread use of technology by untrained people increases the risk of accidents. With a maximum speed of 25 km/h, PMDs remain a potential threat to road users and pedestrians. In the first nine months of 2023, 2.64 thousand accidents involving electric scooters and PMDs were recorded in Russia.
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