Scenario-Based Tests with Radar Sensors

The Task

Test of the application software for ADAS/AD ECUs or radar sensors with integrated signal processing and application. (ADAS/AD: advanced driver assistance systems/autonomous driving, ECU: electronic control units).

The Challenge

The development of application software for ADAS/AD requires comprehensive tests with the scenarios relevant to the application. The behavior of the entire sensor channel and the control system must be taken into account. Sensor and application are often integrated in one ECU.

The Solution

With DARTS, sensor controllers can be quickly tested in complex and very specific scenarios. For example, defined tests such as Euro-NCAP (European New Car Assessment Programme) are used. The prepared (programmed) tests with varying parameter can be executed automatically. Tests with a hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) test bench, including test automation lead, to detailed formal evaluations that are relevant for production release. DARTS deliver the necessary RF performance to ensure a plausible correlation between distance changes, speed, and size of the simulated objects.

Example:

• Cut-In Scenario
  • The ego-vehicle is moving at a constant speed in the center lane
  • Another vehicle at a lower speed changes from the right to center lane
  • The appropriate action is required to avoid a collision
• Requirements for Radar ECUs
  • Detect the object as soon as possible => long range required
  • Track the movement of the object => Fine resolution for distance r, speed v_rel, and angle Ψ required
• Requirements for Radar Simulation
  • Resolution of simulated distance r, speed v_rel, and angle Ψ must be higher than the available resolution of the radar ECU
  • Plausible correlation between distance changes and speed to fulfill the tracking algorithm

The example shows the performance of DARTS in a particularly demanding scenario performed with a mechatronic radar test bench that also supports continuous angle simulation.