DLR

As a pivotal part of the IAA TRANSPORTATION 2022, prototype.club joined forces with a renowned partner to tackle pressing challenges in transportation technology: Collaborating closely with DLR, the initiative focused on revolutionizing vehicle recognition accuracy through cutting-edge solutions. Following rigorous evaluations by a diverse expert jury, the outcomes were met with unanimous excitement and approval.

The contribution from startup ANavS, with their expertise and commitment, played a crucial role in navigating the project to success. This collaboration underscores the power of synergistic partnerships in driving innovation and shaping the future of transportation technology.

What was the DLR challenge about?

In 2022, prototype.club embarked on a dynamic collaboration with the German Aerospace Center (DLR), delving into a challenge that sought to revolutionize vehicle recognition accuracy using camera data. The focal point of this endeavor? The precision of trajectory calculations for the bustling A39 highway.

Challenges on the Lower Saxony Test Field

Within the context of the Lower Saxony test field, the existing image recognition system grappled with a considerable 50cm localization error, compounded by demanding computational requirements. The challenge unfolded as a quest to craft real-time image recognition software capable of pinpointing and localizing vehicles, with a specific emphasis on calculating the trajectory of cars navigating the A39 highway. As an added layer of complexity, participants were encouraged to explore features like identifying other objects, classifying vehicles according to EU standards, and documenting variables such as velocity and acceleration.

Sprinting towards success at IAA Transportation 2022

Participants were provided with raw camera data from dual vantage points, challenged to engineer a prototype within a mere two weeks. The culmination of this sprint saw the unveiling of innovative solutions at the prestigious IAA Transportation 2022. A noteworthy incentive awaited the team that achieved the lowest localization error — a coveted follow-up order to collaboratively elevate their prototype into a Minimum Viable Product (MVP) over the next 100 days in tandem with the DLR. This collaborative venture exemplified the synergy between cutting-edge technology and aerospace ingenuity, promising groundbreaking advancements in image recognition systems.

What was the winning solution?

What seemed to be impossible at first turned into a surprisingly amazing solution in the end. Within 2 weeks, teams crafted prototypes, unveiled at IAA 2022. The winning team secured a follow-up order for MVP development, marking a triumphant success story. 

ANavS impresses with extraordinary prototype

Who is DLR and what are they doing?

As the national research institution for aviation and space, the German Aerospace Center (DLR) stands at the forefront of aerospace research and technology development. Renowned for its pioneering work, DLR engages in a spectrum of endeavors, spanning space exploration, aeronautics, energy, and transportation. With a commitment to advancing scientific understanding and technological innovation, DLR plays a pivotal role in shaping the future of aviation, space exploration, and sustainable transportation solutions. Their collaboration with prototype.club on refining vehicle recognition exemplifies their dedication to cutting-edge research with real-world applications.

How can open innovation work with public institutions?

Open innovation in public institutions harnesses the power of collaboration between government entities and innovative startups like ANavS to drive progress and efficiency. With the support of organizations like KOINNO, innovative procurement methods are employed, ensuring that processes remain within legal boundaries while allowing public players to benefit from cutting-edge solutions. prototype.club’s successful track record in this arena demonstrates the effectiveness of such partnerships, not only in saving costs but also in expediting processes. By embracing open innovation, public institutions can leverage external expertise and agile methodologies to tackle complex challenges effectively, ultimately fostering a culture of advancement, like the DLR did.

How did the collaboration continue?

Since IAA TRANSPORTATION 2022, DLR and ANavS have collaborated closely, showcasing their joint achievements at the HANNOVER MESSE 2023. ANavS emerged as the challenge winner, and the collaboration is set to continue at IAA MOBILITY. This partnership, sparked during Mobilitython 2022, led to the development of an innovative real-time vehicle detection system. The ongoing collaboration reflects our commitment to fostering meaningful connections and facilitating discussions on lessons learned with the support of Kompetenzzentrum innovative Beschaffung (KOINNO).