Cohda Wireless gets in line with platooning

Cohda Wireless recently conducted tests at a South Australian racetrack to demonstrate the application of its V2X technology to truck platooning.

The testing was conducted at The Bend Motorsport Park, located in Tailem Bend, South Australia, and sees Cohda applying its V2X-Locate technology to this area of transport.

In the videos below, the demonstration sees the cars ( at the time of the test no autonomous trucks were available to Cohda for the trial) keeping an automatic 20-metre gap. But Cohda’s positioning technology can currently work to maintain a gap of 5 metres (16 feet) +0.4 seconds at a speed of 95 kilometres per hour (59 mph).

Note: The vehicles used in this demonstration are Cohda’s own self-driving development vehicles. At the time of producing this video, trucks capable of autonomous operation were not available to Cohda Wireless in Australia.

Accurate and flexible

Cohda Wireless’ platooning solution is not only accurate, but it has an inherent flexibility to adjust to platoon participants.

‘We are developing a robust solution that can accommodate departures and intruders. In practical terms this means that trucks can leave and re-join the platoon at will without affecting the integrity of the platoon,’ said Dr Paul Alexander, Cohda Wireless’ Chief Technical Officer.

‘Another important distinction with our system is that it is ‘fail operational’ because accurate vehicle positioning, particularly spacing, is governed by Cohda’s unique V2X-Locate technology as opposed to a reliance on on-board sensors.’

‘We believe we can produce a compelling and cost-effective proposition that will advance the introduction of truck platooning on our roads and achieve its objectives of improved fuel economy, reduced driver fatigue and traffic congestion,’ continued Dr Alexander.

What’s next?

iMOVE asked about Cohda Wireless’ confidence in Australia making a serious effort at the introduction of platooning.

‘There is certainly recognition of the value of platooning technology in Australia and lots of interest in it. Our primary audience is truck OEMs – most of which are based in Europe and USA,’ said Dr Alexander.

And what are Cohda’s expectations in taking these solutions to market?

‘We are working with truck OEMs to finalise the product. This might involve some further testing and refinement but we are very close to being able to take it to market.’