LIDAR Test Projection for Early Virtual Road Scenario Validation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Testing LIDAR devices in autonomous vehicles is costly and time-consuming, especially when conducted on real roads or test tracks, as it is typically done at a late development stage.
Innovation Solution
A test system that simulates LIDAR objects using a controller to generate LIDAR information, a LIDAR image generation device, and a projection device to project artificial LIDAR objects onto a surface, mimicking real-world scenarios without requiring modifications to the LIDAR device.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If LIDAR devices are tested on real roads or test tracks, then the functionality and reliability of the LIDAR device can be verified under real conditions, but the testing becomes very time-consuming and cost-intensive
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates virtual copies of real-world objects (vehicles, pedestrians, obstacles) as artificial LIDAR objects with simulated LIDAR information including two-dimensional outline information and depth information. These virtual objects are projected onto a projection surface to generate artificial LIDAR returns that mimic real object responses, enabling comprehensive functionality verification without physical presence of real objects
Solution Approach 2:
The system introduces a projection surface as an intermediary between the LIDAR device and the virtual objects. The projection surface reflects light to create artificial LIDAR returns, serving as a mediator that enables the LIDAR device to 'perceive' virtual objects in a controlled environment while maintaining realistic measurement conditions
2Reliability
If LIDAR devices are tested on real roads or test tracks, then the functionality and reliability of the LIDAR device can be verified under real conditions, but the testing becomes cost-intensive
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates virtual copies of real-world objects (vehicles, pedestrians, obstacles) as artificial LIDAR objects with simulated LIDAR information including two-dimensional outline information and depth information. These virtual objects are projected onto a projection surface to generate artificial LIDAR returns that mimic real object responses, enabling comprehensive functionality verification without physical presence of real objects
Solution Approach 2:
The test system can simulate multiple different objects and scenarios using the same projection surface and control unit. The system can adapt to test different LIDAR device configurations and test various functional requirements (object detection, distance measurement, speed measurement) without requiring different physical test setups, making the testing process universally applicable
3Reliability
If testing is conducted at a late stage of development with vehicle largely developed, then the LIDAR device can be tested in integrated vehicle context, but the tests can only be carried out at a relatively late stage of development
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables LIDAR device testing to be performed independently in a controlled test environment before vehicle integration using the projection surface and virtual objects. This preliminary testing allows for early validation of LIDAR functionality, reducing the need for extensive later-stage testing and allowing parallel development of vehicle systems
Solution Approach 2:
The system can dynamically adjust test scenarios by modifying the virtual objects projected onto the projection surface. The control unit can change object parameters (position, size, reflectivity, movement) in real-time to simulate different driving conditions, allowing flexible testing at any development stage without requiring physical reconfiguration
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables efficient and cost-effective testing of LIDAR devices by simulating various road scenarios, reducing the need for real-world testing and allowing simultaneous testing with other vehicle systems, such as stereo cameras.
Implementation Method 1
a LIDAR projection device (7) for projecting the artificial LIDAR object onto a projection surface (8)
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a test system for testing a LIDAR device (1), comprising a controller (5) for generating LIDAR information relating to a simulated LIDAR object based on a real object to be reproduced for a test process, wherein the LIDAR information includes at least one item of two-dimensional contour information and an item of depth information relating to a virtual distance of the simulated LIDAR object; comprising a LIDAR image generation device (6) for generating the simulated LIDAR object based on the LIDAR information; and comprising a LIDAR projection device (7) for projecting the simulated LIDAR object (9) onto a projection surface (8). The depth information is determined on the basis of a time component between the projection surface (8) and the LIDAR device (1) to be tested, which is defined by the controller (5). In one embodiment, a video image generation device can be provided, in order to generate a visible video image of at least one real object on the projection surface. The IR image which is not visible for people and which is projected by the LIDAR projection device is overlayed in a synchronised manner with a video image that is visible for people. In a variant, the test system is suitable for also testing a stereo camera, in addition to the LIDAR device, e.g. which is integrated in a vehicle to be checked, but can also be provided independently, yet in combination with the LIDAR device.