Insignia demonstration vehicle avoids collisions by braking and steering automatically
Smart intersection benefits city dwellers and climate, as well as motorists
UR:BAN research project for intelligent assistance and traffic management systems
Careful, pedestrian: The sensor technology of the Opel Insignia recognizes the obstacle quicker than the human eye and automatically initiates the evasive action.
Most driver assistance systems today focus on traffic situations outside urban areas. However, inner-city driving represents an even bigger challenge for modern drivers. There is so much happening at once and there are so many cars, trucks, buses, cyclists and pedestrians to keep an eye on. Higher safety in this complicated mobile environment is the goal of several assistance systems under development at Opel, which can warn the driver or briefly take control of the vehicle.
Evasive action: Opel Insignia recognizes the suddenly emerging obstacle and avoids a collision with automatic steering and braking.
Steering intervention: Opel Insignia reacts quicker to the dangerous situation than the driver and initiates the evasive action.
The Rüsselsheim-based car-maker is working on innovative driver-assistance systems as part of its role in the UR:BAN research project (user-oriented assistance systems and network management). The aim of the project, which is partly funded by the German government, is to provide drivers with forward-looking support, tailored and customized to driving in urban traffic. Thirty-one partners from the automotive industry, electronics and software companies, together with research institutes and local authorities, are developing intelligent assistance and cooperative traffic management systems.
Making inner-city driving safer
Especially in urban traffic, situations frequently occur where ordinary drivers may not react in time – cars emerging unexpectedly from parking lots, children unseen behind parked cars suddenly dashing into the road. Opel has built an Insignia demonstration vehicle that not only warns the driver of such dangers, but can also avoid collisions with vehicles and pedestrians by taking automatic evasive action through steering combined with braking.
The car is equipped with advanced camera and radar, and modified braking and steering systems, which can intervene in the control of the vehicle.
Another Opel demonstration vehicle shows the potential for further development of driver assistance systems through studying driver behavior. Using vehicle data, a front camera and a head-tracking camera, a specially developed algorithm analyzes driver behavior patterns to predict at an early stage, for example, whether the driver will perform a lane change maneuver or not. Such enhancements will optimize the performance of driver assistance systems such as side blind-zone alert by avoiding unnecessary warnings and driver irritation, helping to increase the acceptance of active safety features in the future.
Cars and infrastructure generate traffic recommendations sent via Wi-Fi
Intelligent Insignia: Opel flagship communicates with the traffic lights at the next intersection via Wi-Fi and informs the driver via the display. He can then adapt his speed accordingly.
In addition to avoiding collisions, Opel is also working on improving inner-city traffic conditions for the benefit of motorists, city dwellers and the climate. Opel has built a demonstration vehicle based on the Insignia Sports Tourer that shows how information sent via Wi-Fi from the traffic management infrastructure and other vehicles can generate recommendations for driving at intersections. The recommendations can help the driver approach the intersection smoothly, safely and without wasting fuel, and preferably without stopping. They are displayed via an advanced Man-Machine-Interface (MMI) using the Driver Info Center in the instrument panel, with secondary information shown in the central console.
Best recommendation: Future Opel vehicles will recognize the traffic situations and show the driver which lane they should take and how fast they should drive to reach the next set of traffic lights when they are green.
In order to improve inner-city driving Opel can call on years of experience in Car-to-X communications and research into automated driving. But despite rapid progress in assistance systems and cars that can drive automatically, the company remains committed to keeping the driving experience enjoyable. At Opel, driving is fun when it is neither boring nor over-demanding, and those are precisely the conditions the company’s driver assistance systems are aiming at.
Networking of vehicles and infrastructure in urban traffic
Urban-appropriate human-machine interaction
Smart intersection: Car-to-X information about the phasing of traffic lights and the traffic situation, sent to the car via Wi-Fi from the traffic management infrastructure and other vehicles, can help to generate recommendations for driving at intersections. Communicated to the driver via an intuitive human-machine-interface, this information can enable the driver to approach and cross the intersection comfortably, safely and energy-efficiently, preferably without stopping.
Driving a car in towns or cities means a coexistence of various road users and means of transport. It also means coping with a complex traffic situation and a high density of activities.
Expert teams at Opel developing innovative assistance systems to increase efficiency and safety in urban transport are participating in the UR:BAN research project (user oriented assistance systems and network management). The goal of the partly German government funded project is to provide drivers of passenger cars and commercial vehicles with forward-looking support, tailored and customized to driving in urban traffic. Thirty-one partners from the automotive industry, electronics and software companies, together with research institutes and local authorities, are developing intelligent assistance and cooperative traffic management systems.
The results and findings obtained so far were delivered today in the UR:BAN mid-term presentation at the Deutsche Zentrum für Luft - und Raumfahrt e.V. (DLR – German Center for Air and Space Travel) in Braunschweig, Germany.
The on-going, until 2016, UR:BAN research project, is divided into three pillars: "Cognitive Assistance", "Networked Traffic System", and "Human Factors in Traffic". "Opel is a partner in all three project pillars", explains Michael F. Ableson, Member of the Management Board and GM Europe Vice President, Engineering. "The focus is always on the human being. Teams of engineers, physicists and traffic psychologists are exploring assistance in difficult situations, the intelligent networking of vehicles and infrastructure, driver behavior, and the appropriate human-machine interaction for urban driving."
Cognitive Assistance - Collision avoidance by evading and braking
Especially in urban traffic, difficult situations can occur where the driver may not react in time. This is where the sub-project "collision avoidance by steering and braking" comes in. The Opel team is developing an advanced driver assistance system that takes advantage of the extra road space created by steering intervention to implement an additional situation-specific evasion. This system should help avoid collisions with vehicles and pedestrians in inner-city traffic.
At the mid-term presentation, Opel will show a demonstration vehicle equipped with advanced camera and radar, complemented by modified braking and steering systems, which allow an intervention in the control over the vehicle. Consideration of the driver’s reaction represents an important criterion for the optimization of the intervention strategy. In addition, Opel will integrate the latest findings of human-machine interaction and driver intention detection in the demonstration vehicle.
Networked Traffic System - Smart intersection
Information sent to the vehicle via Wi-Fi from the traffic management infrastructure and other vehicles can help to generate recommendations for driving at intersections, which an intuitive Human-Machine-Interaction (HMI) can communicate to the driver. This could enable the driver to approach the intersection comfortably, safely and energy efficiently and preferably cross without stopping. This optimization and the further development of car-to-X technology specifically for driving in an urban environment is presented within the framework of UR:BAN.
HMI display in Opel Insignia - Optimized speed for approach he intersection comfortably, safely and energy efficiently and preferably cross without stopping.
In this part of the project, Opel is building on many years of experience in the field of car-to-X communication, as shown in projects such as the successfully completed SIM-TD field test. A networked traffic system and cooperative driving will enable the future step from the mere exchange of information to the joint action of all relevant actors.
Human Factors in Traffic – The appropriate HMI for urban driving
Within UR:BAN, an Opel team is working on improving technical systems. However, the information gained by the new technical systems can only improve driving and safety when drivers also know how to deal with the newly won information and how to react correctly. The focus of the sub-project “Human-Machine Interaction” (HMI) therefore is the way humans experience the behavior of driver assistance systems. In the foreground is interdisciplinary teamwork, with psychologists, engineers and physicists collaborating on the development and implementation of new technology elements to communicate with the driver.
Important questions addressed here include what information content do drivers need in order to follow a driving strategy; or what forms of representation motivate drivers to use a system; and how to avoid driver distraction. The experts test the influence of the assistance systems in various simulators and in real traffic, under controlled conditions.
The evaluation of the objective and subjective data provides the basis for the evaluation of system design and layout. Assistance systems that optimally support the user in his driving behavior are then integrated, in close cooperation with the other sub-projects.
Human Factors in Traffic - Behavior prediction and intention recognition
Understanding driver behavior can help to optimize the warning strategy of the man-machine interface of assistance systems. Opel’s target in the sub-project "behavior prediction and intention recognition" is therefore to develop an algorithm to detect driver intention using standard vehicle sensors. This allows a prediction of driver behavior in difficult driving situations.
The algorithm should identify, at an early stage, future avoidance maneuvers or emergency braking situations. Extensive testing and test data records show that, before maneuvers begin, specific behavior patterns and characteristics in the transverse and longitudinal guidance of the vehicle show up with all drivers. More than 50 volunteers completed a specific drive route under controlled conditions, where they encountered unexpected situations and the resultant maneuvers.
Based on the tests, the Opel team expects to predict whether the driver can mitigate an emergency situation through steering or braking. This information can help to adapt appropriate warning and intervention strategies beneficial for the sub-project "collision avoidance by evading and braking". If the system detects that the driver alone can mitigate a difficult situation, it can delay or suppress a driver warning.
Visionary: Monza Concept gives outlook for Opel brand strategy at IAA
Efficient: Perfect use of space, lightweight design, innovative powertrains
Connected: Revolutionary infotainment with LED projection technology
Inspiring: Monza Concept shows new interpretation of sculptural Opel design
A light, athletic look outside, unique projection technology inside
combined with custom connectivity and modular design that enables
sustainable propulsion systems par excellence – the Opel Monza Concept
is stylish, ultra-modern efficiency on four wheels. It is the role-model
for the next generation of Opel cars. The groundbreaking concept car
makes its world premiere at the International Motor Show (IAA) in
Frankfurt from September 12 - 22 (press days: September 10 - 11) and
shows what people can expect from Opel in the future.
“The Monza Concept represents the Opel car of tomorrow”, says Opel
CEO Dr. Karl-Thomas Neumann. “On one hand, it embodies everything that
already characterizes Opel – German precision combined with innovative
technologies wrapped in captivating design. In addition, it addresses
the themes that will be the development-focus of the next generation of
Opel cars: maximum connectivity and optimum efficiency.”
“Connectivity is demonstrated by a trailblazing LED projection
technology for instrument and infotainment displays. Efficiency comes in
many ways, with lightweight design, optimal use of interior space, and
advanced powertrain technology. The Monza Concept is based on increasing
electrification of the automobile in everyday driving, from
range-extender to fuel cell. And as far as styling is concerned, we are
expressing pure efficiency in a new, lean and athletic interpretation of
our typical sculptural shapes. The Opel Monza Concept is nothing less
than our vision of the automotive future.”
Lightness: Styling conveys athletic efficiency rather than pure muscle power
An Opel Monza already made its world premiere at the IAA back in
1977: it was a large coupé with a silky smooth-running six-cylinder
engine. The Monza was in production until 1986 and has long since
belonged to the elite circle of iconic cars. The new Monza Concept now
follows in its wheel-tracks: The beautifully shaped hood with the
distinctive center fold continues the tradition of the Monza front with
the typical Opel crease. The large boomerang shaped air intakes in front
of the wheel arches complement the elegant chrome bar that proudly
holds the brand logo.
With the Opel Monza Concept, the designers in Mark Adams’ team introduce a
new interpretation of the sculptural design that first went into
production with the Opel Insignia. Selected distinctive lines, high-precision
design and perfect sweeping contours remain the core of the evolving
design philosophy called “Sculptural artistry meets German precision.”
But a new, athletic allure demonstrates the car’s overall efficiency.
“This is the next bold step along our journey into the future, but at
the same time we show that we have established a consistent design in
which people can build trust”, says Mark Adams, Head of Opel Design.
The sculptural surfaces of the 4.69 meter-long, four seat Opel Monza
Concept are modeled after ocean waves lapping on the shore. These
flowing surfaces give a look of lightness, dramatically underlined by
the side-sills that taper off in front of the rear wheel arches. This
unique styling element is inspired by the lean physique and slim waist
of a greyhound dog, running as if on tip-toes with powerful elegance.
The design of the Opel Monza Concept’s body sides enables easy entry and
egress for front and rear-seat passengers, while underscoring the
prominent, sporty rear wheel arches, which share the same width as the
front.
The Opel Monza Concept’s roof line is particularly sophisticated – at
first it runs in a semicircular form like a classic coupé’s, but then
just before reaching the tailgate it sweeps slightly upwards. In spite
of its sporty look and flat silhouette with a height of just 1.31
meters, there is neither loss of space in the luggage compartment – 500
liters in volume – nor constrained headroom for the passengers. This is
due to the fact that the whole cockpit structure is around 15
centimeters lower than in conventional models. Actually, the
Opel Monza
Concept offers the same airy passenger compartment as a mid-size car.
The expansive doors provide maximum functionality with spectacular
views when opening. They swing up like the outstretched wings of a
condor and offer an unobstructed view of the spacious, open passenger
cabin (or the surroundings from the inside) thanks to the absence of a
B-pillar.
Connectivity: Efficient and well-connected into the automotive future
Efficiency and connectivity are the main focus of development in
focus for next generation of Opel models. The Opel Monza Concept offers a
fascinating preview of these developments. Once behind the wheel, the Opel Monza Concept whisks you away into a completely new and unique world of
instruments and infotainment. The original Opel Monza was also way ahead of
its time 35 years ago with a digital display in the cockpit.
The Opel Monza Concept continues innovating with state-of-the-art LED
projection technology. Drivers no longer find the conventional
individual, separate monitors that display different information;
instead, they face a wide, sculpted dashboard that sweeps from door to
door, and is used as a single projection surface. Information and
decorative elements are displayed on the surface, which the driver can
customize according to his needs, taste or mood. A total of 18 LED
projectors create a continuous, adaptable multi-functional display. This
is a world premiere in an automobile. Already established in the events
arena, this technology has caused a sensation at major occasions such
as Queen Elizabeth’s Jubilee, and Opel designers were first to think of
implementing it in a passenger car. The 3D graphics are impressive, and
reflect all important functions from precise vehicle and driver
information to internet and communication options as well as decorative
elements. Both the area displaying information and the background can be
individually configured, and operation is via voice control and
steering wheel controls.
Efficiency and clarity are also priorities here: when it came to how
the displays present information, Opel engineers focused on the best and
most personal way to make relevant data available to the driver. The
approach was “simplifying the multitude” and so details on the car, the
navigation and the smartphone settings and connection only appear when
necessary or desired. So drivers can use a wide range of information
without being overwhelmed by text or images. This also makes the Monza
Concept a model of future HMI (Human-Machine-Interface) systems, as its
interior design is based on latest research findings in this field.
This also applies to the comprehensive smartphone connectivity in the Opel Monza Concept. With three worlds of connectivity – called ME, US and ALL
– drivers can focus solely on their driving experience, or get in touch
with friends and family or even connect to the whole internet
community. With ME the infotainment system virtually
disconnects the drivers’ smartphone and prioritizes the information
relevant for the driving experience. US enables the
passengers of the Opel Monza Concept to connect with a group of selected
people such as friends and family members: these can log-in to the car’s
infotainment system with their own communication device and exchange
information, music and images, chat and make appointments, etc. ALL goes beyond US.
It allows the driver and virtually the whole outside world to connect.
Drivers can for example spontaneously share their planned route online
over a tablet or smartphone so that people can catch a ride with them
along the way – enabling a new kind of instant car-sharing. With this
trailblazing infotainment and connectivity technology, the Monza Concept
shows how far ahead Opel designers and engineers are thinking, so that
the next generation of cars make their contribution to a harmonious,
connected society
The trendsetting sensor and connectivity technology in the Monza
Concept has even more to offer: it gives a preview of the advancements
in “Car-to-Car” and “Car-to-X” systems – prerequisites for future
autonomous driving and areas in which the research department at Opel is
already intensively working. By comprehensively connecting road users,
intercommunication can be enhanced, as can safety, because dangerous
traffic situations are registered earlier and more accurately than
before.
Flexibility: Modular design for powertrain-diversity
The Monza Concept is based on a modular design to allow
highest-possible flexibility when selecting a propulsion system. A
variety of sustainable powertrains based on increasing electrification
of the automobile are conceivable. For the Monza Concept to be displayed
at the Frankfurt show, engineers conceived an electric drive with a CNG
(Compressed Natural Gas) range extender – a further development of the
Ampera’s pioneering technology. The new-generation three-cylinder 1.0
SIDI turbo – which also makes its premiere at the IAA – takes over the
task as range extender. But it does so with natural gas instead of
gasoline, further improving the car’s CO2 footprint. With its
visionary approach, Opel continues to combine the potential of electric
propulsion with the benefits of the internal combustion engine.
“We have a clear vision of how Opel cars will be in the future, and
we have a clear strategy of how we will achieve this goal. The Opel Monza
Concept gives this strategy an unmistakable identity,” says Dr.
Karl-Thomas Neumann. “It embodies what our customers can expect from us
within the next years; not only in terms of design, but also in terms of
efficiency and connectivity between drivers and the internet community.
So it already anticipates future everyday automotive life, and serves
as an important source of inspiration on the road to that destination –
and not just for Opel.”
Opel has overall responsibility for the 1.6 million test kilometers covered
simTD project: Results of one of the world’s largest Car-to-X field tests
Weather warning function increases road traffic safety
Opel Insignia Sports Tourer - simTD test vehicle
The results of one of the world’s largest field tests to enhance
traffic safety and efficiency by using vehicle communication (Car-to-X)
have now been presented in Frankfurt. In the simTD project
(Safe Intelligent Mobility – Field Test Germany), Opel joined forces
with 17 consortium partners to test the functionality, everyday
suitability and efficacy of Car-to-X communication for the first time in
real-life conditions. The vehicles in the test were electronically
linked to each other and with the infrastructure. This enabled the
exchange of information about, for example, weather and road conditions
between vehicles, as well as between vehicles and the traffic
infrastructure and environment.
Opel Insignia Sports Tourer with integrated Car-to-X technology
Describing the results of the project, Dr. Burkhard Milke, Opel
Director Electric/Electronic Engineering, said: “In the field test, led
by Opel in liaison with our partners, we were able to prove that traffic
behavior can be positively influenced by the simTD
functions. Traffic safety and efficiency were measurably increased.
After a comprehensive survey of the more than 300 test drivers, it is
also clear that the added value of Car-to-X technology for safe, relaxed
and efficient driving was confirmed. As a result, wide market
acceptance of the technology is expected.”
Since 2009, research has been conducted on the conditions necessary
for a sustainable increase in traffic efficiency and safety under the
project name “Safe and Intelligent Mobility – Field Test Germany” (simTD).
The test fleet from all manufacturers, launched in 2012, comprised 120
vehicles and three motorcycles, which were all equipped with the same
simTD technology for scientific comparability. With up to
120,000 test kilometers per week, over 1,650,000 kilometers were covered
in more than 41,000 hours of driving during the field test. In
addition, driving and traffic simulation tests were also conducted and
compared to the real-life results.
Weather warning: An example of best communication networking
Among many other functions, Opel tested a new weather warning feature
during the project. “Weather warnings and road condition reports are
excellent examples of the connection between Car-to-X communication and
the HMI (Human Machine Interface),” says Dr Milke. “They are at the top
of drivers’ wish list for future communication systems. With the new
generation of infotainment systems now offered in the Opel ADAM and to
be presented at the IAA in the new Opel flagship Insignia, the technological
foundation has been laid for stronger in-car connectivity with Car-to-X
communication. But the concentrated establishment of a corresponding
road and traffic infrastructure will be decisive for the commercial
deployment of this technology. Opel will continue to play a large role
in this.”
The road weather stations located in the field test vicinity, which
already provide detailed information – used, for example, by road
gritting trucks – communicate with existing vehicle sensors such as the
rain sensor to issue warnings on adverse weather conditions. The
critical parameters monitored were dew points, road surface
temperatures, fog conditions and rainfall. The Human-Machine-Interface,
used by all partners in the field test, was developed by DFKI, the
German Research Center for Artificial Intelligence.
SimTD: One of the world’s largest Car-to-X field tests starting in Hesse
Milestone for implementation of vehicle communication
Road weather warning function: Research for increased traffic safety
The enhancement of individual mobility towards even
more safety, efficiency and environmental compatibility is one of the major
challenges facing society. In the process, connecting automotive road users with
each other (Car-to-Car) and with their environment (Car-to-X) is becoming
increasingly important. The start of the test phase of the SimTD
project (“Safe Intelligent Mobility – Test Field Germany”) in Hesse is a
milestone towards the implementation of this type of vehicle communication.
“The results of the joint SimTD project
will set the trend for all of Europe. With the launch of the SimTD
pilot project, one of the largest global field tests in Car-to-X communication
is now beginning,” says Dr. Burkhard Milke, Opel Director Electric/Electronic
Engineering adding, “Cars learn to exchange data according to standardized
rules. They also learn to process the transmitted data in such a way that they
can quickly and reliably filter and display information important to the
driver. In the past Opel was able to lay the foundations for Car-to-X
technologies in projects such as DIAMANT.
These findings will be taken into account when we now take on the baton from
Continental after successful test preparations and assume leadership of the fleet
testing within SimTD.
After
several years of intensive preparation, the test phase will begin in the
greater Frankfurt am Main area with a fleet of 120 vehicles from German car
makers. The field test will last until the end of the year and include various
studies on Car-to-Car technology and its impact on increasing traffic safety
and efficiency. Around 450 test drivers will take part. During the test drives,
millions of communication events will be generated in order to exchange data. Within the test fleet, 20 Insignia
Sports Tourers equipped with state-of-the art equipment for vehicle
communication are participating.
The data compiled from the tests will be analyzed in
close consultation with the University of Würzburg and the Technical University
of Munich, whereby the universities will also ensure a good statistical
cross section of drivers and test routes. The latter were chosen in close
cooperation with the city of Frankfurt am Main and Hessen Mobil. The home base
for all field test vehicles is a test fleet base on an industrial compound in
Frankfurt Höchst. The fleet is controlled by the Drive Center near the Hessian
Traffic Control Center.
At the top of the wish
list: Road weather warning
Among the many aspects tested in the context of SimTD,
the development of the road weather warning function, for which Opel is
responsible, plays a central role. According to studies, this information
is at the top of drivers’ wish list. Road weather warnings combine real time
data on road conditions and the weather report with warnings about hazardous
weather conditions such as heavy rain, fog or cross wind. This data is of great
added value to drivers and lead to a significant increase in traffic safety.
Four road weather information stations located in the
field test vicinity, which are already providing detailed information, for
example for road gritting trucks, lay the foundations for the test. The
critical parameters being monitored are the dew point and road surface
temperature. Based on this data, site-specific warnings are generated and
displayed in the vehicles. The HMI (Human-Machine-Interface) used by all
partners for the field test was developed by DFKI, the German Research Center
for Artificial Intelligence.
The Federal Ministry of Economics and Technology (BMWi), the Federal
Ministry of Education and Research (BMBF) and the Federal Ministry of
Transport, Building and Urban Development (BMVBS) provide funding for
simTD, because this consortium has the potential to promote a
new dimension of foresighted driving, traffic control, and accident
avoidance. The ministries are convinced that a commonly agreed standard
is essential for the commercial deployment of this pace-making
technology. simTD is a joint project initiated by leading
German automakers, automotive suppliers, communication companies and
research institutes, together with assistance from the public sector.
Project partners are as follows: Adam Opel AG, AUDI AG, BMW AG, BMW
Forschung und Technik GmbH, Daimler AG, Ford Forschungszentrum Aachen
GmbH, Volkswagen AG, Robert Bosch GmbH, Continental, Deutsche Telekom
AG, Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft zur Förderung der angewandten Forschung
e.V., Deutsches Forschungszentrum für Künstliche Intelligenz GmbH
(DFKI), Technische Universität Berlin, Technische Universität München,
Hochschule für Technik und Wirtschaft des Saarlandes, Universität
Würzburg, Hessisches Landesamt für Straßen- und Verkehrswesen, Stadt
Frankfurt am Main. The project is promoted and supported by the German
Federal Ministries of Economics and Technology (BMWi), Education and
Research (BMBF), Transport, Building and Urban Development (BMVBS), and
also by the federal state of Hesse, the German Association of the
Automotive Industry and the Car 2 Car Communication Consortium. BMWi,
BMBF and BMVBS support simTD with approximately 40 million euros, the
other project partners contributes approximately 31 million euros.
This
work was funded within the project SimTD by the German Federal
Ministries of Economics and Technology as well as Education and Research, and
supported by the Federal Ministry of Transport, Building and Urban Development.
