A modular architecture of a PC-based driving simulator for advanced driver assistance systems development

Abstract

Interactive driving simulators support a variety of applications in the automotive field such as development of new in-vehicle systems and training purposes. Due to the improvement of computer technology, PC-based driving simulators are achievable and still can provide reasonable control and feedback cues. Representative simulation models can be utilized to produce realistic vehicle behavior as well as the interaction with other traffic participants. This paper presents a modular architecture for a PC-based driving simulator. It serves as a virtual prototyping platform for development, testing and initial training purposes, specifically, in the field of Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS). Furthermore, it can be used as an effective educational tool in the field of serious games. The simulation environment consists principally of various real-time capable simulation models developed with MATLAB/Simulink, such as vehicle dynamics model, road and traffic models and a model for ADAS simulation. These are arranged in a modular structure which allows for interchangeable simulation models, and hence, flexible and maintainable simulation environment. The structure of the PC-based driving simulator and the design of the simulation models are discussed. Prototypical implementation of two ADAS functions is presented to show the usability and validity of the developed platform for ADAS proof of concept, testing and basic drivers training.