Research on Autonomous Driving based on a Highly Flexible Prototype Vehicle Based on a flexible prototype vehicle and object recognition algorithms from robotic science, the present research aims at new approaches in the development of autonomous driving vehicles. An advanced prototype vehicle, driven by four independent hub motors that provide maneuverability and driving function far beyond automotive standards, serves as the basis for investigations. Enhanced knowhow from robotic disciplines comprises sensor technology, navigation algorithms and the autonomous vehicle control system. With the integrated research vehicle, several autonomous driving testing scenarios are carried out to enable comprehensive evaluation and potential assessment of different technologies and development approaches in view of future Ru0026D activities. The study shows, that: A)4WID4WIS (four wheel independent driving and four wheel independent steering) electric vehicle is much more flexible and efficient to achieve superior performance in aspect of dynamics and drive ability than traditional vehicles. B)Object recognition and path planning algorithms in the robotics science can be implemented in the development of autonomous driving techniques and have achieved convincing results. C)This research ensures a decoupling of the basic vehicle control from the overall robotic path planning and following system. A commonly defined interface enables the adaption of the overall control system to various vehicle types.

Development of a Navigation Algorithm for Optimal Path Planning for Autonomous Electric Vehicles There are many different driver assistance systems that help the driver controlling their vehicle. These systems do not have full control of the car; however, there are more and more systems in development that take over individual driving functions completely. We are working towards a fully autonomous future. The goal is not only to transport people to their desired destination, but to make commuting on roads safer. Navigation is one of the essential tasks of autonomous driving. The software must independently calculate a route from its current location to the destination. If the vehicle is not guided precisely through the road network, it can never reach that destination. To cope with the problem, the data of the road network must be available to the vehicle. Based on this data, the vehicle must be able to calculate a route to its destination. This paper deals with the development of a navigation algorithm, for optimal path planning, within the framework of an industrial project. The various requirements for the realization of a navigation system are listed. Solution strategies of such systems are identified and compared. Based on this, approaches for solving the task are developed and implemented.