Autonomous car test solution debuts at EuMW

The VRTS combines NI’s mmWave front end technology, a PXI Vector Signal Transceiver (VST) and application-specific software. Unlike traditional automotive radar simulators that are only capable of obstacle generation for functional behaviour test, the VRTS integrates a 76–81 GHz vector signal generator/analyser designed for dynamic obstacle generation and comprehensive RF characteristic measurements.

Using a more comprehensive approach to radar test that includes both traditional and hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) test techniques, engineers can deliver more robust autonomous driving technology to comply with evolving regulatory requirements. NI will distribute the VRTS through VRTS Specialty Partners including Hirain Technologies, Konrad Technologies, Linktron and Noffz Computer Technik.

VRTS Specialty Partners deliver advanced radar test software and systems that are customised to address exact customer requirements.

The VRTS scales from a base configuration that can emulate two obstacles to sophisticated configurations that can emulate four independent obstacles per PXI chassis.

Key VRTS attributes include the ability to simulate Doppler effect velocity of up to 250 km/hr, minimum obstacle range of 4 m, object distance resolution down to 10 cm, support for multiple angles of arrival and variable radar cross sections.

The VRTS includes both object simulation capabilities and the radar measurement suite. In addition, engineers can take advantage of the flexibility of the software to use the VRTS to simulate scenarios ranging from a pedestrian walking across the street to lane-change driving scenarios.

Built on a flexible software and modular hardware platform, the VRTS is the latest system offering from NI. The VRTS empowers engineers to build smarter, highly customised test systems to verify automotive radar sensor performance.