In the Subteam Autonomous System we take care of the design and adaptation of all additional components belonging to the autonomous system as well as the programming for the recognition of the distance and control of the race car.

 

Brakes

 

In addition to the existing brake, the regulations dictate, an autonomous functioning mechanical brake must be integrated in the vehicle. The challenge here is to design and manufacture such an additional brake, which fits in the limited space available in the front half of the monocoque.

 

Steering

 

Our steering in the Driverless racing car can be operated both autonomously and manually. We have added an electric drive to the steering, which can actuate the signals from the autonomous system.

 

Autonomous System

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• LiDAR: An essential part of the perception is the LiDar system, which detects all types of high-resolution objects in a large area around the vehicle and calculates their relative distance.

 

• Camera: Since the LiDar cannot differentiate between cones and geometrically similar objects, the data is combined with that of the camera system, with which we can not only distinguish cones, but also perform a classification.

 

• Motion Planning and Control: When the cones around the racecar are identified, motion planning can begin to create a geometric path, as well as calculate the necessary dynamics of the race car.  

 

• Localization and Mapping: In order to create a map, and be able to use the collected information in the following rounds, a good estimate of the movement is necessary.

 

• Simulation: A simulation environment has been set up in which the Autonomous System can be tested with all sensor inputs, which in turn significantly accelerates the software development.