Emerging augmented reality simulation
The Test Bed Lower Saxony is a 280-kilometre-long research platform where researchers and companies test automated and networked driving. With its cameras and sensors, this test field provides more data than anywhere in the world. The acquisition, processing, interpretation and transmission of data into a digital image of the test field are key research areas at DLR. This is the only means of producing reliable research results that promote the certification of automated driving functions.
The sheer size of the test field and the large amount of data require the use of virtual or augmented reality (VR or AR) for visual representation. AR glasses give visitors an overview of the technology and data that feeds into the Test Bed Lower Saxony. A digital diorama shows the most exciting section of the test field – the A39 autobahn with its permanently installed camera masts, seen from a bird’s eye view. The data from the actual test field can be viewed in real-time and illustrates the current situation on the roads – live. A monitor simultaneously displays the video image from the perspective of a sensor head on the test field and, thus, the interconnection of real and simulated data.
In order to understand data transmission in both directions, visitors can use a virtual switch to activate a signal generator at the server house for the test field. A few seconds later, they see the corresponding sensor head on the video live stream, which is activated by touching the model.
The demonstration highlights the performance of the test field in terms of processing large amounts of data in real-time. It also showcases the system’s simulative capabilities and precise calibration principles.
Links:
German Aerospace Center (DLR)
Institute of Transportation Systems
Lennart Asbach | Email Lennart.Asbach@dlr.de
