Automotive test system supplier AB Dynamics has developed an updated version of its Guided Soft Target (GST) vehicle for use in ADAS and autonomous vehicle (AV) testing, the new model featuring a lower platform with a drive over height of 100mm. According to the company, the lower profile further reduces the risk of damage to the test vehicle and also brings benefits in terms of precise positioning, speed control and test vehicle synchronization.
The GST was developed in a collaboration between AB Dynamics and Dynamic Research Inc. (DRI), featuring AB Dynamics’ Path Following and Synchro control technology and an aluminum Ultra Low-Profile Chassis (ULPC) with retractable wheels that recede if they are driven over, minimizing shock input to the test vehicle’s suspension.
The foam-panelled body of the GST (Soft Car 360 – designated the harmonized Global Vehicle Target by EuroNCAP and NHTSA) brings total weight to 315kg, and the vehicle can be reassembled in 10 minutes following impact
“Just as [ADAS] technologies move forward, so too must the enabling test systems that are used for development. The new GST combines all the benefits of the previous generation platform with reduced risk of damage to the test vehicle,” stated Andrew Pick, business director for track test systems at AB Dynamics.
The 3.5kWh battery in the GST is claimed to be capable of sustaining a full day’s testing on a single charge, with fast recharging track-side via the inbuilt battery management system. The lithium iron phosphate battery is formed from six identical packs that can be easily removed, and which power electric motors that can accelerate the GST to speeds in excess of 50mph (80km/h) with 0.2g longitudinal acceleration and 0.8g maximum deceleration. A radio system shares position data with other controllers via the Synchro interface, which allows its motion to be synchronized with the test vehicle and other ADAS targets.
