Design and Development of a Robotic Platform at Scale for Implementing Artificial Intelligence and Computer Vision Algorithms in Autonomous Vehicles

Abstract

The automotive industry has shifted towards electric vehicles in the past decade. Electric cars are beginning to dominate the market and are expected to become the global standard for mobility. This transition from gasoline vehicles to electric ones has facilitated the approach and development of autonomous driving systems. This project focuses on designing and developing a 10:1 scale electric vehicle platform, integrating multiple sensors and computer systems. The project has three primary objectives: (1) the development of an autonomous vehicle platform, (2) the exploration of artificial intelligence and computer vision algorithms, and (3) providing university instruction in autonomous vehicles (AV). The platform replicates AV features by incorporating electric motors, batteries, and essential sensors for AV, such as RGB cameras, LiDARs, depth perception cameras, and radar. An onboard computing system enables the evaluation of advanced artificial intelligence and computer vision algorithms in a controlled environment. The project involves the development and testing of algorithms for autonomous navigation, sensory data processing, and real-time decision-making. Simultaneously, the project aims to impact education by creating innovative teaching materials. The scaled platform will serve as an educational resource for undergraduate students interested in autonomous vehicles, artificial intelligence, and computer vision. This interdisciplinary approach aims to prepare the next generation of professionals in the emerging field of autonomous electric vehicles