Introduction
Want parking sensors, but not the installation procedure (drilling holes, wiring etc.)? Here's an innovative product I came across that deserves its own thread.
If you go out to shop for a parking sensor system for say a Celerio or Swift, as an official accessory, you will get a 4 sensor system for about 4-5K with an LCD display. If you want something cheaper, for around 3k, you can get one with a digital display. This system uses a fair bit of wiring and sensors are placed on the bumpers.
The 'FenSens' system uses a couple of sensors which are placed on the number plate and are connected via Bluetooth to your smartphone. The mobile phone acts as a display screen whenever you want to reverse.
Frame houses 2 proximity sensors along with the battery and a Bluetooth antenna. A look at the basic sketch of the FenSens system:
In a country like India where even the badging on a car gets stolen, how are the sensors on the number plates safe? FenSens comes with a set of security screws. Only owners will be able to add/remove the system with the unique screwdriver. Also, the system has this anti-theft feature which allows it to work only with your phone. So, it won't work with any other phone if stolen. You can even track the system from your phone if your car/system is stolen:
Here's a look at the parts of the FenSens system. The battery in the middle lasts about 5 months. The Tap quick launch button shown on the right allows you to launch the app on your phone and use the sensors. You can place the button on the steering wheel:
For cars where the number plate is higher than 4 feet from the ground, the system is not recommended. Although, it is suggested that you measure the distance and adjust the clearance in the app accordingly for a better output:
One of the shortcomings that I felt was the range of the sensors. It is limited for sure. As seen in the image below, the objects which are short would be difficult to detect. So, you will have to make sure that there is no one behind while backing up:
The display on your phone when you tap the quick launch button. You can have audio and vibration alerts as well:
There are different alert and account settings. Since only one person won't be using the app, the account holder can add different devices of friends and family who will then be able to use the system as well:
Feasibility
It all boils down to this. Does FenSens make sense in India? At
$150 (~Rs. 9,500), definitely not! There are cheaper options available in the market. Agreed that these options come with wires attached. But, if this saves 50%, anyone would learn to live with the wires. But, that's not the point.
What if this system was made in India? We think it could then easily sell for 1,000 - 1,500 rupees. Would be cool, no?