dSPACE and LeddarTech unite to develop LiDAR for self-driving cars

10 Dec 2020

To create high-precision simulations and interfaces for LiDAR sensors for self-driving vehicles.

Developing LiDAR technologies for self-driving cars.

dSPACE, a developer of technologies for connected, autonomous electrically-powered vehicles, and LeddarTech, a developer of level 1-5 ADAS and AD sensing technology, have entered into a partnership to work on LiDAR technologies for autonomous driving.

The partners are intending to provide high-precision simulation models and interfaces for LiDAR sensors, enabling OEMs and suppliers to integrate LiDAR innovations into ready-for-application solutions more quickly.

The cooperation will support the emulation of new LeddarTech laser sensors in simulation solutions at an early development stage. dSPACE will provide simulation models for testing and validation, as well as the sensor simulation environment for validating camera, LiDAR and radar sensors throughout the development process – accelerating customers projects.

Point cloud simulation

The dSPACE simulation solution generates point clouds in real time to simulate objects. The simulation models help determine the most effective positioning of the sensor on the vehicle (“sweet spot”), as well as the sensor limits (“corner cases”). LeddarTech will be able to incorporate dSPACE’s sensor models into its development projects.

“The right testing strategy, the right models and ready-to-use interfaces for simulation and reprocessing are key building blocks,” commented Dr. Christopher Wiegand, Product Manager at dSPACE. “This partnership will enable our customers to accurately and quickly perform validation tasks for LiDAR applications. Without reliable simulations, automated driving systems operating at SAE Levels 3-5 cannot be achieved.”

Michael Poulin, Vice-President, Strategic Partnerships and Corporate Development at LeddarTech, said, “OTA simulation is a key innovation for LiDAR. Integrating LeddarTech’s LiDAR products and dSpace’s simulation software through a generic sensor interface enables each party to validate products and services to potential customers.”

“Enabling the validation of environmental sensors material properties and weather condition is crucial in simulations. LeddarTech and dSpace will work together on further developing and modelling sensor-specific environmental effects, such as operating in rain, fog, spray, and more.”