Edge sensors play a crucial role in various applications, particularly in the automotive industry, where they collect data and detect objects or events at the edge or periphery of a system. These sensors have become increasingly prevalent, especially with the growing adoption of autonomous driving. In this article, we explore the significance of edge sensors, such as LiDAR, radar, and 3D surround-view camera systems, in enhancing automotive safety and functionality. Additionally, we delve into the introduction of cost-optimized processors that address the market’s need for faster signal processing, reduced device costs, and smaller form factors.
The Importance of Edge Sensors in Automotive Applications
LiDAR, or Light Detection and Ranging, sensors utilize laser beams to measure distances and create detailed 3D maps of the vehicle’s environment. With their high precision, LiDAR sensors can detect and identify objects such as vehicles, pedestrians, and obstacles accurately.
Radar sensors, based on Radio Detection and Ranging technology, employ radio waves to detect and track objects around the vehicle. These sensors are particularly useful in various weather conditions and excel at measuring the speed and distance of objects.
3D Surround-View Camera Systems consist of strategically placed cameras around the vehicle, capturing a complete view of the surroundings. By processing the images from these cameras, a composite, bird’s-eye view of the vehicle’s environment is created, aiding in parking, maneuvering, and obstacle detection.
Enhancing Safety and Functionality
Edge sensors play a vital role in enhancing the safety and functionality of automotive systems. They enable features like collision avoidance, adaptive cruise control, pedestrian detection, and autonomous driving by providing real-time data and enabling the vehicle to accurately perceive its surroundings.
Introducing Cost-Optimized Processors
To meet the increasing demands for faster signal processing, reduced device costs, and smaller form factors, AMD introduces two additions to its AMD Automotive XA Artix UltraScale+ family: the XA AU10P and XA AU15P cost-optimized processors. These processors are automotive-qualified and optimized for use in advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) sensor applications.
Functional Safety and Accelerating Development
The XA Artix UltraScale+ processors are certified for functional safety up to ASIL-B, a critical requirement for automotive ADAS sensors, including LiDARs, radar, and smart edge sensors. This certification enables carmakers, robotaxi developers, and Tier 1 suppliers to accelerate the development of autonomous vehicles while ensuring the highest level of safety.
Realizing the Potential
Leading companies, including a prominent LiDAR company, are already designing next-generation ADAS edge systems based on the new devices. The XA Artix UltraScale+ processors enable sensor fusion by integrating data from multiple edge sensors and performing image and video processing before porting it to an external System-on-a-Chip (SoC). Furthermore, these processors can be connected to multiple displays in the vehicle, enhancing infotainment features and overall user experience.
Edge sensors have revolutionized the automotive industry by providing crucial data for advanced driver-assistance systems and autonomous driving technologies. Their ability to detect and identify objects accurately has significantly enhanced safety and functionality. The introduction of cost-optimized processors, such as the XA AU10P and XA AU15P, further propels the advancement of automotive systems, meeting the demands for faster signal processing, reduced costs, and smaller form factors. As the automotive industry continues its march towards autonomous driving, edge sensors and cost-optimized processors will play a vital role in shaping the future of mobility.
Reference: https://community.amd.com/t5/adaptive-computing/amd-powers-next-gen-automotive-edge-sensors-with-new-additions/ba-p/607635
