In the ever-evolving landscape of autonomous driving, precise and quick decision-making is critical. Whether it's trucks 'platooning'—automatically following one another on highways—or cars autonomously changing lanes, every vehicle movement must be calculated and executed flawlessly without human intervention.
This is where artificial intelligence (AI) comes into play, providing the brainpower to control key functions such as braking, steering, and dampening systems. The more efficient these AI algorithms, the better the vehicle's overall performance.
In a significant collaboration, ZF Group and Infineon Technologies AG have jointly developed advanced AI algorithms for the control and development of vehicle software through the EEmotion project. Funded by the German Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Action, the project has already showcased the potential of AI in automated driving, with real-world testing proving the algorithms' ability to manage all vehicle actuators seamlessly, ensuring safe and precise driving.
AI Driving Future Of Automation
ZF has integrated these AI algorithms into two of its cutting-edge software systems—cubiX and Eco Control 4 ACC—running on Infineon’s high-performance AURIX TC4x microcontroller. This collaboration has resulted in significantly improved driving performance and safety, particularly in advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) like adaptive cruise control (ACC) and automated lane changes. AI-powered solutions now ensure more accurate lane changes and increased energy efficiency, marking a pivotal shift in the automation landscape.
Compared to traditional non-AI approaches, the new system offers superior precision and efficiency while reducing computing power demands, enabling cost-effective Level 2+ autonomous systems.
'The EEmotion funding project demonstrates that our AI-based algorithms give our customers significant advantages—products can be developed faster, with added functionality and greater efficiency,' said Torsten Gollewski, Head of Research and Development at ZF.
Setting Stage For Highly Automated Driving
One of the most outcomes of the EEmotion project is its validation of AI for safety-critical functions in vehicle control systems, propelling the industry closer to fully autonomous driving. According to Ernst Stoeckl-Pukall, Head of Digitisation and Industry 4.0 at the German Federal Ministry, 'The project has provided important momentum, enhancing the innovative strength and global competitiveness of the German automotive industry.'
ZF’s cubiX software, designed for controlling chassis components, and the Eco Control 4 ACC predictive cruise control system are cornerstones of this innovation. The latter, with its computationally intensive optimisation algorithm, has the potential to improve vehicle range by up to 8% under real driving conditions—a breakthrough in energy-efficient vehicle management. These AI-driven advancements enable automakers to bring new vehicle models to market faster, providing unprecedented flexibility and efficiency.
Infineon’s Role In Enabling AI-Powered Automation
The complex and resource-heavy nature of AI algorithms requires high-performance computing solutions. Infineon’s AURIX TC4x microcontroller—a pivotal technology in this project—delivers the necessary real-time processing capabilities to handle the demands of AI-driven systems. Equipped with a Parallel Processing Unit (PPU), the microcontroller ensures rapid and efficient data processing, enabling the next generation of Software-Defined Vehicles (SDVs).
'With our world-leading semiconductor products, software, and services, Infineon enables customers to develop their own AI applications. The AURIX TC4x is ideally suited for in-car AI applications, heralding the next stages of automated and ultimately autonomous driving,' said Peter Schiefer, President of Infineon’s Automotive Division.
A Leap Forward For Autonomous Vehicles
As the automotive industry races towards automation, the collaboration between ZF and Infineon marks a significant leap forward. The application of AI algorithms in vehicle software development and control is unlocking new levels of driving precision, safety, and efficiency. With AI-powered solutions like cubiX and Eco Control 4 ACC, alongside Infineon's cutting-edge microcontrollers, the future of highly automated driving is closer than ever.
The EEmotion project stands as a testament to how AI can transform the automotive landscape, making it not only smarter but more energy-efficient and cost-effective. By harnessing AI’s potential, ZF and Infineon are paving the way for a new era of autonomous driving—where safety, precision, and performance converge seamlessly on the road ahead.
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