AB Dynamics’ ADAS target platform LaunchPad Spin has received approval from Euro NCAP. The platform is the latest addition to AB Dynamics’ range of officially listed test equipment, which provides approved target and propulsion solutions for a variety of test scenarios involving cars, motorcycles and pedestrians.
The LaunchPad Spin is designed to carry a variety of vulnerable road user (VRU) targets, including pedestrians, cyclists, e-scooters and animals. It is also compatible with the Soft Pedestrian 360, a fully approved pedestrian target and propulsion testing solution.
Equipped with AB Dynamics’ latest RC software, the LaunchPad Spin offers precise positioning, rapid scenario reset and coordination of all test objects with an accuracy of 2cm. Its high-capacity hot-swappable battery system enables a full day of testing at pedestrian speeds on a single charge.
Featuring torque vectoring-driven wheels and a precision-steered front wheel capable of continuous rotation through 360°, the platform can travel at speeds up to 30km/h and accelerate at 3m/s2.
The platform also features a ‘turn on the spot’ capability, enabling the steering to rotate from 0-90° in just 0.2 seconds to accurately replicate sudden changes in direction commonly exhibited by pedestrians.
By mimicking the dynamic behavior of pedestrians, such as sudden changes in direction, the LaunchPad Spin has been designed to expand the testing envelope to cover complex and realistic scenarios, providing insights for driver assistance systems and vehicle safety.
With a tapered teardrop shape to reduce radar cross-section, the chassis of the LaunchPad Spin can withstand the weight of a 44-metric ton truck, making it suitable for heavy commercial vehicle testing.
“We are delighted to announce our LaunchPad Spin has been approved by Euro NCAP for official testing,” said Dr Andrew Pick, business director, track test systems at AB Dynamics.
“The Spin is the most manoeuvrable target platform on the market and its agility is essential in accurately replicating the motion of VRUs (vulnerable road users). As sensor systems and testing become increasingly sophisticated, the Spin’s mobility helps to futureproof it as the testing landscape will continue to rapidly evolve.”
The LaunchPad Spin will be showcased at the JSAE Annual Congress in Yokohama, Japan, on May 22-24 and at Automotive Testing Expo Europe on June 4, 5 & 6 in Stuttgart, Germany.
