mmWave Radar-Based Noninvasive Vehicle Occupancy Detection With Insights From Vision, RF, and Physical Sensors: A Review
Jawad Yousaf, Alyssa Palmer, Maitha Shams, Zayna Wasma, Montasir Qasymeh, Taimur Hassan, Deepak Arora, Mohammed Asaad Ghazal · IEEE Sensors Journal · 2025
The potential uses of human occupancy detection (HOD) in vehicles are crucial for handling resources, passenger safety, and privacy-preserving technology. In this study, the usage of various sensor systems for non-invasive vehicle occupant detection is examined, including mmWave radar, vision-based, and physical sensors. These technologies undergo a thorough review analysis that looks at methods, performance indicators, and use cases before being assessed for robustness, accuracy, real-time capabilities, scalability, and cost-effectiveness. The impact of clutter, scalability, and privacy in car interiors on HOD is also thoroughly discussed. Based on its ability to balance cost, accuracy, and adaptability, frequency-modulated continuous wave (FMCW) radar is termed the best option for vehicle occupant identification. The study discussed the possible challenges and future direction, as well as the conclusion provides research opportunities in hybrid sensing systems and advanced machine learning integration to overcome existing constraints.