Adas & Autonomous Vehicle Engineering - July 2023

Overview

The July 2023 issue of ADAS & Autonomous Vehicle Engineering presents a comprehensive overview of the latest advancements and challenges in the automotive industry, particularly focusing on autonomous driving technologies and the evolution of Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS).

Key Highlights:

1. Kodiak Robotics' Sensor Innovations: The issue opens with a feature on Kodiak Robotics, which has relocated its front-facing Luminar Iris lidar and wide field-of-view camera to proprietary mirror-mounted SensorPods on each side of its trucks. This strategic move enhances perception performance and allows for quick sensor replacements, thereby maximizing vehicle uptime. The fifth-generation sensor stack is designed to improve both sensor and GPU performance while enhancing power efficiency.

2. Next-Generation ADAS Sensing: Experts at the AutoSens 2023 conference discuss the technological advancements that are reshaping the industry’s approach to driver-assist and autonomy ambitions. The focus is on how evolving sensor technologies, including 4D imaging systems and advanced radar capabilities, are setting new standards for safety and performance in ADAS. The article emphasizes the importance of high-resolution chipsets and the expected dominance of 4D radars in the market, which offer significant improvements in detection range and angle resolution compared to current systems.

3. The Software-Defined Vehicle: A significant theme throughout the issue is the transition to software-defined vehicles. Industry experts, including Burger, highlight that the automotive sector is lagging behind the PC industry in software development. The need for a universal end-to-end operating system is underscored as the industry moves towards more integrated and sophisticated software solutions. Tesla is noted for its leadership in this area due to its vertical integration and ownership of technology across the stack.

4. Simulation Technology: The issue features an interview with Diego Minen, CTO of VI-grade, a company specializing in simulation technology. Minen discusses the benefits of simulation in reducing development time and costs for automated driving systems and electric vehicles. He emphasizes the importance of modular, scalable, and configurable simulation solutions that can accommodate companies of various sizes, addressing concerns about the high initial investment typically associated with advanced simulation technologies.

5. Challenges in Software Development: The editorial section addresses the ongoing challenges in the automotive industry regarding software development. Experts argue that the industry must adapt its methods to effectively and efficiently develop the software that is becoming central to modern vehicles. The discussion highlights the need for a cultural shift within organizations to embrace new software development practices and technologies.

6. Testing and Validation: Another article discusses the importance of testing ADAS functions in parallel with electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) measurements during vehicle final inspections. This approach allows manufacturers to optimize their testing processes and ensure that safety-relevant functions are thoroughly validated alongside infotainment systems, thereby improving overall vehicle reliability.

7. Future of Autonomous Vehicles: The issue also touches on the future of autonomous vehicles, showcasing an autonomous high-performance Maserati that participated in Italy’s classic Mille Miglia race. This event serves as a nod to the potential of integrating high-performance vehicles with autonomous driving technologies, illustrating the blend of tradition and innovation in the automotive sector.

8. Market Trends and Insights: Throughout the magazine, various articles provide insights into market trends, including the increasing adoption of lidar technology and the ongoing development of next-generation sensors. The discussions reflect a broader industry trend towards enhancing vehicle safety and performance through advanced sensing technologies and software solutions.

9. Subscription and Access Information: The magazine also includes details about subscription options for readers interested in accessing more content related to mobility engineering. It highlights the SAE MOBILUS platform, which offers a wealth of resources, including standards, technical papers, and magazines, aimed at supporting professionals in the mobility industry.

In summary, the July 2023 issue of ADAS & Autonomous Vehicle Engineering encapsulates the dynamic landscape of the automotive industry, focusing on the critical advancements in sensor technology, software development, and simulation. It emphasizes the need for innovation and adaptation as the industry moves towards a future defined by autonomous and software-driven vehicles. The insights provided by industry experts and companies at the forefront of these developments offer valuable perspectives for professionals navigating this rapidly evolving field.