Autonomous driving technology will be present in future BMW models, and the automaker will make use of solid-state LiDAR sensors to increase the abilities of these systems. This is according to automotive supplier Magna and Innoviz Technologies, with both companies set to supply the BMW Group with solid-state LiDAR sensors.
Traditional LiDAR sensors use a spinning mechanism to cast lasers in a circular pattern to provide autonomous driving systems with 360 degrees of coverage. This allows the system to identify potential obstacles in the environment and where the car is in relation to them. The downside here is these sensors are pretty bulky and relative expensive.
Innoviz’s sensor, the InnovizOne, attempts to remedy these issues by providing a more compact and cheaper solution. Moving parts are still present in the unit, but the sensor uses micro-electromechanical systems (MEMS) involving a fixed laser beam that’s redirected in multiple directions via a tiny spinning mirror. The company says its solution only costs around USD1,000, and is four times cheaper compared to conventional LiDAR sensors.
“This solid-state high-resolution LiDAR technology generates a 3D point cloud in real time of the vehicle’s surroundings, even in challenging settings such as direct sunlight, varying weather conditions and multi-LiDAR environments,” Magna stated in its release.
The sensor will be integrated into BMW cars via Magna’s MAX4 autonomous platform, which can be supplemented with Magna’s ICON RADAR and other systems for a more comprehensive setup. Along with advanced software algorithms within the ADAS central computing module, the systems will allow for Level 4 and Level 5 semi-autonomous and fully autonomous driving.
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Why not Lizard like Cicakman?
Hopefully they dun skimp on number LIDARs like Uber did.