Initially, the team at Microtech Designs developed the vehicle detectors using only magnetic field sensors which worked well for their “Exit Mode” product range. While designing the presence mode loops, they found relying on the magnetic field reading only was unreliable. That’s when they started searching for a second sensor that could detect if a vehicle was present. Eventually they ordered an Acconeer A121 evaluation board to test the viability of having two types of sensors in one detector unit.

One of their first observations was that the A121 fitted perfectly into their PCB due to the very small footprint and very few external components required. Other major factors why the team decided for the Acconeer sensor were the low power requirements and its reliability. Once the project started, the development using the A121 chip was extremely quick thanks to the resources and support provided by the Acconeer team.

Required to operate 24/7/365

The combination of the dual sensors allows the system to first register the oncoming vehicle using the magnetic field sensor that in turn activates the radar sensor to verify the detection. The dual sensor arrangement makes the e-Loop detector one of the most reliable systems on the market. Once a vehicle is safely detected, the detector communicates wirelessly with the entrance gate to activate it.

The vehicle detector is mounted at ground level to detect oncoming vehicles to automate entrances and exits for parking garages. It’s designed to operate reliably 24/7/365 in temperatures ranging from -20° to 80° C in all weather conditions. The IP68 rated enclosure can withstand the weight of almost any vehicle and the four replaceable lithium batteries last up to 10 years.