KORK

ADAS (advanced driver assistance system) and other automotive camera systems use a wide range of camera and sensor technology to ensure high performance and safety. One of those systems is radar. Active radar reflectors combined with an optical marker at their center can be used for visual cameras and radar alignment to confirm that these systems are calibrated and functioning correctly.

The optical marker marks the reflector surface's center and corresponds to the radar signal's reflection center. Due to the reflector's planarity, the reflection center and the optical marker sit in the same plane and avoid any angular error when aligning two or more sensor systems (conventional trihedral corner reflectors create such angular errors because of their physical depth that allow multiple reflections of an incoming radar wave). Furthermore, KORK is equipped with a retroreflective file to drastically increase Lidar-Systems' visibility.

Precise spatial alignment of radar and camera sensors to each other or individual sensors can then be analyzed. In addition, verification of sensor alignment (e.g., for online algorithms) is possible with active radar reflector solutions. This concept is beneficial for sensor development and EoL (end-of-line) testing.

KORK introduces an active radar retroreflector combined with a visible optical marker to create a solution for aligning visual cameras and radar. Benefits of KORK include:

Reflection center and optical marker sit in the same plane due to its planarity
The reflection center is aligned with the center of the reflector surface
A clear, visible radar cross-section over a large angular range
A frequency range of 76 – 81 GHz
Includes a LIDAR retroreflector

KORK's versatile design allows it to be integrated into a test laboratory or onto a production line. Typically, a car or the device under test is placed directly in front of the KORK for calibration* and characterization. Depending on the environment, radar absorbers may need to be distributed on and around the holder to reduce unwanted radar reflections.

For an ideal testing environment, we recommend using multiple KORK devices to more efficiently cover all degrees of freedom. All tests can be done using a single KORK device, but more setup adjustments must be made during testing. Our support team can assist you in recommending an ideal setup for your needs.

*Please note that KORK is not a ready-made calibration solution but only the hardware to create a custom solution in a test lab or production line.