Smarter, Safer Transportation Access Control with Radar Detection
There is a growing demand for smarter and safer transportation access control systems, with sensor detection technology playing a central role in this evolution. At many parking barrier arms, traditional detection methods such as induction loops are used to detect vehicles. However, in many cases, no system is in place to detect pedestrians walking underneath an open barrier arm.
EMX offers MRD-1P, a radar presence sensor that is the ideal next-gen solution that is reshaping vehicle and pedestrian detection. Let’s take a closer look at how this product can enhance your detection technology.
Signs marked “vehicle access only” or warnings advising pedestrians not to walk under the barrier arm often fail to deter distracted individuals focused on their phones as they hurry to their next meeting, class, or sporting event. A simple photo eye could address this issue, but in many parking barrier applications there is no practical location on the opposite side of the roadway to install the transmitter for a through-beam photo eye or the reflector for a retroreflective photo eye.
EMX Industries offers a reliable solution with its radar presence sensor technology.
“A safe gate installation depends largely on the technicians who make all of the technology work correctly,” says Joe Williams, CEO of EMX Industries. “That’s why when we developed our MRD-1P radar sensor, we focused on making it extremely simple to install, aim, and configure the detection zone.”
Next-Generation Detection: The EMX MRD-1P
The EMX MRD-1P Radar Presence Sensor represents the next generation of vehicle and pedestrian detection. With a detection range of one to 30 feet, it provides unmatched accuracy in recognizing vehicles, pedestrians, or other obstructions within the detection zone. Equally important, it performs reliably in all weather and lighting conditions—rain, fog, darkness, and bright direct sunlight do not compromise its effectiveness.
A clearly defined detection zone ensures precise operation. Unlike photo eyes, the MRD-1P establishes a detection zone from one side of the roadway—no reflector or transmitter is required on the opposite side. The sensor also actively ignores movement or objects outside the programmed detection area, delivering consistent and targeted detection exactly where it is needed.
“At EMX, we manufacture all types of sensors to detect vehicles and pedestrians and to keep both safe around moving gates and doors,” Williams explains. “The MRD-1P is our latest evolution to prevent distracted pedestrians from being struck by a closing barrier arm.”
Designed for Simplicity and Versatility
The MRD-1P is engineered with usability in mind. It features a user-friendly interface with push buttons and a three-digit display for straightforward configuration. A detachable screw terminal block simplifies wiring, while two on-board relays give technicians flexibility: one relay can trigger when an object enters the detection zone, and the other can generate a pulse signal when the object leaves. This “pulse on exit” feature can even be used to send a “close” command to the parking barrier, potentially eliminating the need for an exit induction loop.
“These intuitive features mean the MRD-1P can be deployed in a wide range of situations,” Williams notes. “Whether it’s an activation sensor for an overhead garage door, a presence sensor that powers up a kiosk, or part of a system to count vehicles on a busy street, the goal is the same: detect the presence of an object quickly and reliably from only one side of the roadway.”
Setting a New Standard in Detection Technology
With its versatile features, rapid response time, well-defined detection zone, and exceptional accuracy, the MRD-1P reinforces EMX’s position as a leader in advancing detection technology for the fence and gate industry.
“As access control and transportation systems evolve, radar sensors are another essential tool in the toolbox,” adds Williams. “The MRD-1P is designed to deliver the reliability and precision that today’s safety-driven environments demand.” If you’re ready to elevate the standard of your radar detection sensor technology, reach out to EMX today.