Research Laboratory for AI and Autonomous Driving
In this laboratory, research focuses on autonomous vehicles, with an emphasis on environmental perception—particularly through the use of Artificial Intelligence.
Autonomous Research Vehicle – VW Passat
Technology and Research
The research vehicle uses the vehicle's existing internal actuators to control both longitudinal and lateral movement autonomously. For environmental sensing and modeling, the platform integrates both factory-installed sensors and additional advanced components:
- Three roof-mounted LiDAR-Sensors for precise environmental perception
- Six Cameras providing a 360° panoramic view
- FLIR-Boson-Camera for thermal imaging, operating in the 8–14 µm wavelength range
- ANavs-Multi-Sensor RTK-System with horizontal position accuracy of 1 cm
- High-Performance Computing Unit, that processes sensor data and enables AI-supported driving strategies
Thanks to its innovative technology and extensive sensor suite, the vehicle is capable of demonstrating autonomous driving functions both on campus and on public roads. Research on this experimental platform is ongoing. We are continuously developing the vehicle’s autonomous capabilities and refining its perception systems
Scaled Test Vehicles – 1:8 Model Cars
Technology and Research
In addition to the VW Passat as an autonomous test vehicle, we are also researching two 1:8 scale model cars that have been converted to fully autonomous driving mode and can be used both on a scaled indoor test field and outdoors. One aim of these test vehicles is to simulate the sensors and actuators of the VW Passat in miniature. The following sensors, among others, are installed for this purpose:
- ZED2i stereo camera for recording RGB and depth images
- Unitree L1 4D-LiDAR Sensor
- Other sensors (2D LiDAR, ultrasonic sensors, IMUs)
- ROS2 based System
These scaled test vehicles provide a safe and controlled test environment for experiments with experimental machine learning approaches. It also creates an accessible platform for student work.
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Further information about the laboratory:
We look forward to exchanging ideas with interested parties from science and industry. If you are interested in working with us, please contact us!
You can also find more information in our virtual AI-Lab (in the ‘AI&Mobility’ building)
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