The development of robust and real-time operating systems

BlackBerry QNX offers the QNX OS for safety, a full-featured real-time operating system for automotive solutions. The product is tested and assessed to meet various safety and security standards such as ISO 26262 and IEC 61508. It is classified to meet the requirements of Automotive Safety Integrity Level D (ASIL D), which is the highest and most stringent level of safety. Additionally, the company offers a range of AV services and products including telematics, infotainment, engine sound enhancement, and advanced driver assistance.

Understanding diverse objects, environments, and situations

Many companies in Ontario are working on products that improve the driving experience using machine learning techniques. GM announced a new Automotive Software Development Centre in Markham, Ontario expanding its engineering workforce to 1,000 positions. Ford Canada announced a $500-million investment to establish a new Research and Engineering Centre in Ottawa, which will focus on driver-assist features. An Ontario start-up, X-matik, has introduced an add-on autopilot called LaneCruise that uses front-facing cameras and a set of actuators to transform traditional cars into autonomous cars. The system comes with three disengagement methods and assumes the full responsibility of drivers.

Another prominent research development in this area is WatCAR Autonomoose, a modified Lincoln MKZ Hybrid that serves as a research platform for AV researchers. The car runs a complete autonomous driving system that is equipped with advanced sensing capabilities that utilize radar, lidar, and cameras to navigate the roads. WatCAR Autonomoose is used to enable Simultaneous Localization and Mapping (SLAM) in all driving conditions. It also aims to improve fuel efficiency, reduce emissions, and develop enhanced control systems.

Improving sensing technologies

Magna International, the giant tier 1 supplier, recently announced MAX4 Autonomous Driving Platform, which combines cameras, radar, LiDAR, and ultrasonic sensors to allow up to level 4 driving capabilities. Magna’s ICON RADAR was announced in January 2018 and has the ability to scan the environment in four dimensions: distance, height, depth, and speed with a range of 300 metres.

Neptec technologies is currently offering its OPAL 3D LiDAR scanner, which provides a range of up to 100 metres, operates at temperatures between -40°C to +40°C, and is resistant to shock and vibration.

Improving Urban Transportation

Autonomous vehicles inspired urban designers and landscape architects to rethink mobility in urban areas. Sidewalk Labs and Waterfront Toronto are working on a sustainable neighbourhood, Quayside, where innovative urban design and digital technologies will be leveraged to address city challenges. Sidewalk Labs’ vision includes autonomous waste transport, shared on-demand services, and autonomous shuttles.

Other companies focus on developing advanced smart traffic monitoring and management techniques to improve the performance of the road network. An example is Miovision, which uses advanced camera-based vehicle and pedestrian detection algorithms, real-time data analysis, and connected vehicle technologies to solve traffic problems. Other Ontario-based companies developing smart traffic solutions include Fortran traffic and AUG signals.

Connectivity

Connectivity involves many challenges such as cybersecurity, data accessibility, and privacy. Ontario companies such as, Isara, Intelligent Mechatronic Systems (IMS), and Escrypt are developing solutions to these challenges using a broad range of technologies .

About AVIN

The Autonomous Vehicle Innovation Network (AVIN) is a Government of Ontario initiative launched in November 2017 that supports Ontario’s competitive advantage and reinforces its position as a North American leader in transformative automotive and mobility technologies, including transportation and infrastructure systems.

This initiative capitalizes on the economic potential of connected and autonomous vehicle (C/AV) technologies by supporting the commercialization of best-in-class, Ontario-made solutions. AVIN also helps Ontario’s transportation systems and infrastructure plan for, and adapt to, these emerging technologies.

For more information, visit the AVIN website: https://www.avinhub.ca/