Networked Systems Improve Comfort and Safety
Mere fractions of a second can make the difference between a driver’s reaction being right or wrong in a high-risk situation. Bosch researchers believe that driver assistance systems can heighten the awareness of the driver, issue timely warnings, and even intervene directly in emergencies — for instance at confusing intersections.
Approximately 30 percent of all traffic accidents that involve personal injuries occur at intersections. Many of these mishaps are a direct result of the complex traffic situations encountered there and the large amount of information to which the driver must react. Researchers at Bosch are analyzing accident data from intersections in their quest to develop sophisticated assistance systems that can reduce specific traffic hazards, step by step. They have already completed two projects in the context of the INVENT research initiative: the right-of-way assistant and the turning assistant. The right-of-way assistant helps the driver react properly to complex right-of-way situations — always in accordance with traffic regulations. As the vehicle approaches an intersection, an onboard video system identifies traffic signals. The presence of a stop sign, yield sign or traffic light is indicated on the instrument panel. If the software senses that excessive speed may cause the driver to run a stop sign, an escalating sequence of warning signals is initiated: A large image of a stop sign immediately appears on the display. Moments later, acoustic and tactile warnings are added. If a traffic signal is detected, the software must of course be able to recognize and prioritize the color. Traffic sign information can also be used in conjunction with onboard navigation systems. Digital roadmaps can also record traffic signs, and the navigation system can convey this location-specific information to the intersection assistant. Making a left turn is another high-risk situation, since the vehicle may cross the path of oncoming traffic. But the same radar sensors that are already being used in high-tech cruise controls to maintain distance can also be programmed to reliably detect an oncoming vehicle. The turning assistant tracks the movement of such vehicles. If it senses an impending high-risk situation, it warns the driver by issuing optical and acoustic signals. Once alerted, the driver can decide whether to accelerate or to brake. In another high-risk situation, the turning assistant is even capable of taking direct control: If the intersection isn’t clear, but a stopped driver tries to enter it anyway, the assistant won’t release the brake.
By analyzing what’s happening at an intersection, video and radar sensors on board this test vehicle can issue helpful driving instructions to the driver.
