News

New research project in SAFER's portfolio enhances safety functions in heavy vehicles with 5G LEO-5G

Jun, 24 2024

SAFER has introduced a new research project titled "Coordinated 5G LEO-5G cellular positioning for improved safety functions in heavy vehicles” in the portfolio. The aim of this partner project is to improve the efficiency of Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) for multi-unit heavy vehicle combinations (MHVs) by providing these vehicles with tools for earlier, more effective, and less intrusive interventions than current ADAS. With precise positioning, safety functions can make more accurate decisions, resulting in improved traffic safety.

The project, conducted by researchers from Chalmers University and Volvo Group, will develop a framework that enables predictive risk assessment for MHVs, allowing for the prediction of vehicle movements. The risk assessment will consider vehicle model deficiencies, road characteristics, and driver intent.

The expected outcomes include a framework for detecting vehicle stability events in the near future (up to 1-3 seconds). The precision and robustness of the framework will be assessed in selected critical driving scenarios for MHVs through a combination of simulations and full-scale vehicle tests. Specifically, the reliability of the methods will be evaluated to assess the potential product benefits and business value.

The project builds on the development of 5G systems introducing Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellites for better communication coverage. By combining these NTN networks with land-based 5G networks, the project aims to enhance the accurate positioning of heavy vehicles. This approach overcomes the limitations of both GPS and land-based 5G positioning, ultimately increasing traffic safety.

Project details

  • Impact Area: Safety principles
  • Duration: 2024-01-15 to 2025-03-31
  • Financing: Vinnova/FFI
  • Budget: 1 MSEK (including 500 KSEK from VINNOVA, 150 KSEK from Chalmers University, 350 KSEK from Volvo Group)
  • Partners: Chalmers - Electrical Engineering - Communication System Group, Volvo Group
  • Project leader: Henk Wymeersch, Chalmers University
  • PhD-students: Yasaman Ettefagh, Chalmers University and Yasaman Ettefagh, Volvo Group