A bus without a driver? Scientists of the Silesian University of Technology in the project on an autonomous minibus
Scientists from the Silesian University of Technology are participating in the work on an autonomous minibus that can be controlled by a remote operator. The conference presenting the vehicle took place on September 21 in Arena Hall in Gliwice.
The Silesian University of Technology, represented by a research team from the Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, was part of a consortium that, together with Blees company from Gliwice, is working on the design of a modern vehicle. It is intended to be an electric, autonomous minibus that can travel on the road without the presence of the driver in the vehicle. How is this made possible?
- We are developing the part of this project related to remote vehicle supervision in autonomous mode. Due to some sudden events, traffic situation, etc., this system in rare cases has to be supported by a remote operator who monitors the vehicle remotely, i.e. constantly looks at screens showing road situations and the situation in the monitored vehicle. In a situation where he estimates that it may become too difficult for the autonomous system, he takes control remotely, having appropriate control systems for this purpose, i.e. a steering wheel, throttle, etc. - explained Prof. dr hab. Wojciech Moczulski from the Department of Machine Design.
The remote operator is able to observe 10 vehicles moving on the road simultaneously, on different routes. - We participate in many tests. We check our solution for remote control and vehicle monitoring in the technology park - near Bojkowska Street in Gliwice. For now, these are simulated situations, e.g. how to avoid unplanned road works - explained Dr. Eng. Piotr Przystałka, prof. of SUT, from the Department of Machine Design.
The remote-controlled minibus is the answer to the market demand. For years, there has been talk of a deficit of drivers. Our product - an autonomous minibus - is- a response to these challenges. The first two vehicles that will appear next year will be ready for implementation - said Martyna Winiowska, general manager at Blees. The company's representatives ensure that the modern driverless vehicle is safe.
The vehicle can take 15 people at a time (there are 7 seats in the minibus), it is also adapted to the needs of wheelchair users and the visually impaired.
The author of the text: Katarzyna Siwczyk
