ADAS/Connected Car - June 2020

Today's Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) and connected cars are paving the way for tomorrow's automated vehicles. To help you keep pace with the latest technology developments, we present this compendium of recent articles from the editors of Automotive Engineering, Autonomous Vehicle Engineering, and Tech Briefs magazine.
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Overview
The "ADAS/Connected Car Special Report" published in June 2020 provides a comprehensive overview of the advancements and challenges in the field of Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) and connected vehicles. The report highlights the critical role of technology in enhancing vehicle safety, efficiency, and connectivity.
One of the key issues addressed is the alarming rise in pedestrian fatalities, with statistics showing a significant increase in deaths since 2008, particularly during nighttime. This underscores the urgent need for improved safety measures in vehicle design and operation.
The report discusses various technologies that are pivotal for the development of automated driving systems. It emphasizes the importance of simulation tools and the integration of advanced processing units, such as Nvidia's graphics processing units (GPUs) and conventional microcontrollers, which are essential for decision-making in vehicle systems. The combination of these technologies is seen as a foundation for creating high-performing automated driving systems.
A significant focus is placed on the evolving role of sensors in ADAS. The report covers innovations in ultrasonic sensors, radar, and lidar technologies. For instance, ultrasonic sensors inspired by echolocation are being developed to detect multiple objects in 3D space, enhancing situational awareness for vehicles. The automotive radar sensor market is experiencing rapid growth, with a 21% annual increase, which is driving demands for improved chip design and testing.
The report also addresses the challenges of bandwidth in vehicle communications. As vehicles become more connected, the need for efficient data processing and communication between vehicles and their ecosystems becomes critical. The clash between the FCC and the transportation industry over vehicle-communications boundaries highlights the complexities involved in optimizing these systems.
Additionally, the report discusses the concept of Level 2+ ADAS, which aims to provide cost-effective technology solutions that meet diverse customer needs. This reflects a pragmatic approach to driver-assistance technology, focusing on practical applications that can be readily deployed.
The report also touches on the importance of fostering diversity in the automotive industry, particularly in the context of developing automated driving technologies. It advocates for open-sourced architectures that can democratize access to AV technology, potentially speeding up the adoption of autonomous vehicles.
In summary, the "ADAS/Connected Car Special Report" serves as a vital resource for understanding the current landscape of automotive technology. It highlights the advancements in sensor technology, the importance of data processing capabilities, and the ongoing challenges related to safety and communication. As the industry moves towards greater automation and connectivity, the insights provided in this report are crucial for stakeholders aiming to navigate the complexities of the evolving automotive environment.

