MARTI

What are we seeing? 

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This exhibit showcases the SwRI Autonomous Vehicle, a vehicle capable of driving on its own without the need of human interference. The vehicle utilizes advanced technology, including machine learning, to navigate and make decisions similar to that of a human driver. Through machine learning, the vehicle “learns” how to recognize and respond to various objects and all different types of situations on the road by processing large amounts of data from its sensor and cameras. 

Take a walk around and notice the Key Features of the SWRI Autonomous Vehicle: Perception technology, Control Driving, Connectivity, and Localization. 

Perception

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Camera Vision Technology (Ranger): The SwRI Autonomous Vehicle utilizes specialized camera systems to see its environment and understand what's around it. 

 Depth Perception (Lidar-Based): The SwRI Autonomous Vehicle contains lidar technology, which enables the vehicle to accurately measure the distance between surrounding objects.  This system will visualize certain distances by displaying a color gradient, where “warmer” colors indicate if the object is closer and “cooler” colors to represent farther objects.  Walk around and see what color are you! 

A.I. Perception- This allows the vehicle to possibly identify obejects on the road and in front of it.  Wave at the camera and see how human are you? 

Control Driving

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Machine Learning Algorithms – The SwRI Autonomous Vehicle contains machine learning algorithms that will assist the vehicle in recognizing pedestrians, traffic signals, and other vehicles. 

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Connectivity

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Traffic Signal Connectivity Autonomous vehicles are equipped with technology that allows them to connect to surrounding networks, including traffic signal systems. This enables the vehicle to communicate with traffic lights and access real-time signal information, such as countdown timers that are not visible to human drivers. 

Localization

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Camera-Based Localization: Ranger achieves localization by utilizing a grown ward-facing camera and advanced algorithms to capture the unique "fingerprint" of road surfaces for accurate navigation. 

Unique Surface Mapping: Ranger identifies and matches numerous road features such as cracks, road markings, oil strains and other characteristics on the ground to corresponding features collected and stored in a map. The layout of features on every segment of ground is distinct, like that of a “fingerprint”, and Ranger only requires a minimal percentage of these features to match to precisely identify the location of the vehicle. 

Independent of GPS: Ranger enables the SwRI Autonomous Vehicle to function efficiently in areas where GPS signals are weak or unavailable, such as tunnels or urban environments where obstruction is abundant.  Ranger achieves an impressive level of positioning accuracy, with measurements within 2 centimeters, comparable to some of the most advanced GPS systems available. This is made possible through its use of a ground-facing camera and advanced localization algorithms. 

Why is it important to achieve autonomous driving?

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Autonomous Driving (AD) systems have the potential to create significant value for drivers, the auto industry, and society.  For employees with long commutes, this could enhance productivity and even reduce the workday, while also making it easier to live farther from the office, potentially encouraging people to move to rural areas or suburbs. Additionally, AD could likely help reduce traffic congestion by improving driving patterns and optimizing traffic flow. AD could also improve mobility for elderly individuals or those who are disabled, providing more transportation options beyond public transit or car-sharing. Furthermore, as advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) become more widespread, safety could improve, with estimates suggesting a 15% reduction in accidents by 2030 in Europe. After all, safety is indeed the main priority when establishing autonomous driving. 

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For the auto industry, AD systems offer substantial revenue potential. Autonomous trucks could significantly improve the efficiency of freight transportation. By operating 24/7 without the need for rest breaks, autonomous trucks can reduce downtime and increase delivery speed. This could lower costs for logistics companies and improve the overall supply chain by allowing goods to be transported more quickly and at a reduced cost. The demand for autonomous driving (AD) features is rapidly increasing, with consumers eager to embrace these innovations. AD systems, particularly those with lidar-based technology, are gaining significant attention in the market, with automakers responding to growing consumer interest and market opportunities. As the technology behind AD systems continues to evolve, there will be a growing need for skilled computer and software engineers to develop and refine these systems. This expansion will create new job opportunities in fields like machine learning, data analytics, and embedded software engineering. By 2035, AD and advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) are expected to generate substantial revenue in the passenger car sector. 

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What does this mean for future technology?

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The potential applications for SwRI’s Autonomous Vehicle technology expand far beyond personal transportation, providing transformational benefits across various industries such as military, space, and agricultural applications. 

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Military Applications 

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SwRI's Unmanned Ground Vehicle technology is designed with modularity, enabling engineers to quickly modify it for military use. For instance, a convoy could command a UGV to "lead when instructed" and "follow as needed." The UGV excels in navigating both urban and off-road environments, making it versatile for operations in harsh conditions. This capability extends to real-time image mapping on the battlefield, eliminating the need for GPS reliance while going off-road. Additionally, the UGV can swiftly transition between human-operated and fully autonomous modes. Overall, this type of autonomous technology enhances military operations such as supply transport on the battlefield, reconnaissance, tactical operations while also reducing human risk in hazardous environments or situations. 

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Space Applications

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Autonomous technology is pioneering space exploration by enabling spacecraft and rovers.