Low-cost function testbed and visualization
The Fraunhofer 1:18 autonomous driving testbed uses proprietary technology to program and control sophisticated model cars on a 1:18 scale track. The vehicles are fully autonomous and are programmed to perform a number of functions. They serve to test new function ideas in a safe environment with quick turnaround times and low effort. Also, the model cars have proven to be impressive eye-catchers at exhibitions – drawing in a crowd and showcasing novel functions in a way that anybody can understand.
The vehicles combine cooperative driving functions with autonomous vehicle control. Thus, real-world applications such as “Electronic Emergency Brake-Light” are transmitted over ETSI messages and following vehicles can directly act on this information. Currently over 10 different functions from day1 cooperative use-cases up to platooning and autonomous car-sharing have been successfully implemented. An integrated control server serves as master control, letting the operator or moderator issue commands to all vehicles simultaneously with a press of the button.
The track itself can also be equipped to function similar to tomorrow’s real world applications. The traffic lights are programmed to send out state-of-the-art ETSI I2V messages containing topology and signal phase and timings. Thus, vehicles can automatically adapt their speed to get an automated green wave. A special area is equipped with wireless charging – thus, vehicles with low batteries can enter these spots to recharge their main battery, much like real electric vehicles might be able to in the future.
The track features an integrated positioning system based on computer vision to locate the vehicles up to millimeter precision. This information is sent wirelessly to vehicles to serve as GNSS replacement. Different tracks from 1*2m to 7*2m have been successfully showcased at exhibitions – and tracks can be extended as large as necessary.