Robot Modes

Certain procedures require the use of autonomous driving robots rather than human test drivers. This is not necessarily because the robots are performing a manoeuvre that cannot be achieved by a human, but because a level of consistency and precision can be reached in a short space of time. Once the investment in robot technology has been made, it can be quickly repaid in vastly reduced testing times.
 

VBOX equipment is increasingly used in conjunction with driving robots, with development of some ADAS applications being carried out in co-operation with Anthony Best Dynamics and Vehico, both leaders in the field.
 

For example: the VBOX 3i together with an IMU provide a highly accurate speed, distance, heading, and yaw rate measurement for use in testing Electronic Stability Control with an Anthony Best Dynamics steering robot.
 

The VBOX 3i Dual Antenna RTK outputs a heading channel derived from its antennas, coupled with an IMU which outputs vehicle yaw rate. This gives a very stable heading which, as a key component of the GPS data required for robot integration, allows for accurate path following used in testing lane change manoeuvres and steady state cornering.