Baidu's Apollo Plan Uses a Game Engine to Test Autonomous Cars
Justin Lam — December 20, 2018 — Autos
References: apollo.auto & engadget
Unity, the same company whose game engine brought 'Cuphead' and 'Hearthstone,' is now working with Baidu on its ambitious Apollo Plan. Utilizing Unity's real-time simulation, Baidu hopes to further its efforts in devising, building, testing, and eventually distributing self-driving systems with level three, four, and five autonomy. By using Unity and creating a simulation, Baidu hopes to accelerate development without having to rely on real-world tests. Additionally, Unity has already provided all its digital assets needed to construct virtual worlds.
By using Unity for the Apollo Plan, Baidu hopes to enable developers to effectively and safely digitize the development phase of these autonomous technologies. According to Tim McDonough, Unity's head of Automotive, "Nobody gets hurt in a video game... You can also test things that you can't test in the real world. What happens if a kid runs up in front of the car, or a moose, those are things you just you just can't test in the real world."
By using Unity for the Apollo Plan, Baidu hopes to enable developers to effectively and safely digitize the development phase of these autonomous technologies. According to Tim McDonough, Unity's head of Automotive, "Nobody gets hurt in a video game... You can also test things that you can't test in the real world. What happens if a kid runs up in front of the car, or a moose, those are things you just you just can't test in the real world."
Trend Themes
1. Virtual Simulation Testing - Baidu's collaboration with Unity's game engine technology opens opportunities to conduct virtual simulations of self-driving systems, thereby accelerating development and minimizing potential risks during testing.
2. Level 3-5 Autonomy - Baidu's use of Unity's real-time simulation software enables the development of level 3, 4, and 5 autonomous driving systems in a safer and more efficient manner.
3. Digital Asset Integration - Utilizing Unity's assets and software for creating virtual worlds provides a distinctive prospect for Baidu to foster the integration of autonomous vehicle systems with other digital assets and technological innovations.
Industry Implications
1. Automotive - Incorporating Unity's software for simulation testing and digital asset creation opens up opportunities for using similar technological advancements in automotive research and development.
2. Game Development - Baidu's collaboration with Unity's game engine technology enables the use of game development software for testing and developing advanced technologies in the automotive industry.
3. Artificial Intelligence - The integration of Unity's simulation software in Baidu's autonomous driving system development also emphasizes the potential for future innovation and research in artificial intelligence and advanced computer vision technology.
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