Fast-Tracking Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) and Autonomous Vehicles Development with Simulation

Developing Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) and autonomous vehicles is a challenge without precedence. Whole new engineering fields – such as artificial intelligence – need to be developed, yet time-to-market is short with intense competition. Estimates indicate that billions of miles of road testing will be necessary to ensure safety and reliability of ADAS and autonomous vehicles. This seemingly impossible task can only be accomplished with the help of engineering simulation. With simulation thousands of driving scenarios and design parameters can be virtually tested with precision, speed and cost economy. This paper describes six specific areas where simulation is essential in the development of autonomous vehicles and advanced driver assistance systems. It also provides examples and substantiates the benefits of simulation while identifying the tools needed for ADAS and autonomous vehicle simulation.