Mercedes is using the Intel Liohi 2 for neuromorphic computing to improve the performance of forward-facing automotive radar systems.
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Mercedes taps Intel Liohi2 for neuromorphic AI
Technology News | October 14, 2024
By Nick Flaherty
Automotive AI
Mercedes is leading a project in Germany to use neuromorphic computing to improve the performance of forward-facing automotive radar systems.
Mercedes is using the Intel Liohi 2 neuromorphic event-driven AI processor in the Naomi4radar project, says Markus Schäfer, Member of the Board of Management of Mercedes-Benz Group and Chief Technology Officer for Development & Procurement. Using neuromorphic, event driven algorithms and processors can increase the speed of response of the radar systems, he says.
The project is funded by the German Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Action to assess how neuromorphic computing can be used to optimise the processing of radar data in automated driving systems.
Mercedes is also working with Karlsruhe University of Applied Sciences on neuromorphic cameras, also known as event-based cameras.
The main focus for neuromorphic computing research is an agreement with the University of Waterloo in Canada with on research led by Prof. Chris Eliasmith.
The focus is on the development of algorithms for advanced driving assistance systems. By mimicking the functionality of the human brain, neuromorphic computing could significantly improve AI computation, making it faster and more energy-efficient.
While preserving vehicle range, safety systems could, for example, detect traffic signs, lanes and objects much better, even in poor visibility, and react faster. Neuromorphic computing has the potential to reduce the energy required to process data for autonomous driving by 90 percent compared to current systems.
The work with the University of Waterloo complements a series of existing Mercedes-Benz research collaborations on neuromorphic computing that includes end-to-end neuromorphic AI learning for autonomous driving.
Startups in the the Ontario Vehicle Innovation Network (OVIN) will also join the growing international Mercedes-Benz STARTUP AUTOBAHN network. The initiative aims to drive transfer research and development to industrialisation.
The OVIN Incubators Program will focus on identifying and fostering innovation in future software & AI, future vehicle components and future electric drive. Working with startups, and in partnership with OVIN, Mercedes-Benz will help progress promising projects through the provision of its specialist expertise and use cases.
“Innovation is part of Mercedes-Benz DNA. In our global R&D strategy, open innovation gives us rapid and direct access to the latest ideas and developments around the world,” said Schäfer. “We are therefore delighted to further expand our activities in Canada as a founding partner of the OVIN Incubators. In a fast-paced environment, it is another important channel for developing exciting future products and elevating our customer experience through new technologies.
In its pilot phase, the OVIN Incubators Program will conduct startup scouting to identify opportunities in Ontario relevant to Mercedes-Benz fields of research. The aim is to empower startups to engage with industry and establish a robust pipeline of companies whose growth can be catalysed. Together, OVIN and Mercedes-Benz will narrow down an initial longlist through a process of evaluation, ultimately arriving at individual projects that will progress to proof-of-concept based on Mercedes-Benz use cases.
https://group.mercedes-benz.com/company/news/open-innovation-canada.html