Cruden has shared details of its latest breakthrough research, which is being conducted in collaboration with Audi and the University of Stuttgart in Germany, on how to minimize latency when using a driving simulator.
Cruden’s researchers achieved zero simulator-induced latency through the use of predictive algorithms that synchronize and reduce latency. This new approach will enable OEMs to use validated car models directly on the simulator without having to make modifications to compensate for simulator hardware and software delays.
“Latency has always been a challenge in the design of driving simulators when trying to exactly replicate the handling characteristics and driving experience of a real car caused primarily by sampling delays, processing time and data transfer,” explained Maarten van Donselaar, Cruden’s CEO.
“This latency means that additional time elapses between the model output and the resulting feedback from the simulator when compared to the real vehicle. Minimizing latency is something of a holy grail in driving simulation and this research is the culmination of years of work to identify, measure and eliminate latency, to finally be able to put numbers behind the claims.”
To reduce perceived simulator-induced latency even further, Cruden predicts the visuals from the output of the vehicle model in order to synchronize them with the simulator’s motion platform and other feedback channels.
The second step involves applying additional prediction algorithms to all system channels based instead on inputs using the available information about steering wheel position and velocity. This prediction can compensate for all delays that are not a result of the dynamics of the vehicle model, to effectively reach a state of zero simulator-induced latency.
This methodology was tested on two 6DOF simulators: an automotive simulator with an offboard projection screen used for chassis development at Audi, and a motorsport simulator with three screens mounted on the top platform and a Formula 3 car model.
September 27, 2016
