Chris van der Ploeg

Zhennan Fei, Rickard Johansson, Mikael Andersson et al.

Software-in-the-loop (SIL) simulation is a cornerstone for the validation of modern automotive safety functions. However, many current frameworks utilize ideal sensing, which bypasses the functional insufficiencies of perception algorithms, leading to over-optimistic safety assessments. This paper proposes a perception-informed SIL testing methodology that bridges the gap between ground-truth simulation and real-world perception behavior. We present a framework for incorporating causal probabilistic models into standardized, scenario-based simulation toolchains, applicable to both Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) and Autonomous Driving Systems (ADS). Our approach enables the systematic injection of realistic perception errors, such as loss of detection, sizing inaccuracies, and positioning offsets, derived from physical triggering conditions like fog, rain, and object-merging scenarios. By evaluating these ``faults'' within a standardized simulation environment, we demonstrate that perception-informed testing reveals latent operational risks that ideal SIL environments fail to capture, providing a scalable pathway for SOTIF (ISO 21448) validation.

Manuel Muñoz Sánchez, Chris van der Ploeg, Robin Smit et al.

Predicting the movement of other road users is beneficial for improving automated vehicle (AV) performance. However, the relationship between the time horizon associated with these predictions and AV performance remains unclear. Despite the existence of numerous trajectory prediction algorithms, no studies have been conducted on how varying prediction lengths affect AV safety and other vehicle performance metrics, resulting in undefined horizon requirements for prediction methods. Our study addresses this gap by examining the effects of different prediction horizons on AV performance, focusing on safety, comfort, and efficiency. Through multiple experiments using a state-of-the-art, risk-based predictive trajectory planner, we simulated predictions with horizons up to 20 seconds. Based on our simulations, we propose a framework for specifying the minimum required and optimal prediction horizons based on specific AV performance criteria and application needs. Our results indicate that a horizon of 1.6 seconds is required to prevent collisions with crossing pedestrians, horizons of 7-8 seconds yield the best efficiency, and horizons up to 15 seconds improve passenger comfort. We conclude that prediction horizon requirements are application-dependent, and recommend aiming for a prediction horizon of 11.8 seconds as a general guideline for applications involving crossing pedestrians.

Chris van der Ploeg, Robin Smit, Alexis Siagkris-Lekkos et al.

Using Infrastructure-to-Vehicle (I2V) information can be of great benefit when driving autonomously in high-density traffic situations with limited visibility, since the sensing capabilities of the vehicle are enhanced by external sensors. In this research, a method is introduced to increase the vehicle's self-awareness in intersections for one of the largest foreseen challenges when using I2V communication: cyber security. The introduced anomaly detection algorithm, running on the automated vehicle, assesses the health of the I2V communication against multiple cyber security attacks. The analysis is done in a simulation environment, using cyber-attack scenarios from the Secredas Project (Cyber Security for Cross Domain Reliable Dependable Automated Systems) and provides insights into the limitations the vehicle has when facing I2V cyber attacks of different types and amplitudes and when sensor redundancy is lost. The results demonstrate that anomalies injected can be robustly detected and mitigated by the autonomous vehicle, allowing it to react more safely and comfortably and maintaining correct object tracking in intersections.