Telematics

The term telematics stands for the integration of telecommunications and IT.

In the automotive industry, small telematics black boxes determine, process, store and send vehicle-relevant data. This data can be used on the one hand to identify an accident and to trigger a life-saving emergency call. On the other hand, telematic devices can help to improve your driving style for a safer driving. To exclude false alarms or incorrect evaluations, we put the devices through their paces. We do this by driving a predefined test track to check the calibration process of the sensor technology or by doing offroad tests and simple driving maneuvers.

In a further step, we test the devices on our crash test facility. While a defined crash pulse is generated on impact with the test slide, we carry out reference measurements so that we can later make a well-founded statement about the data quality of the measuring boxes. Here we develop new approaches for crash detection algorithms with our students and use artificial intelligence algorithms in order to be able to make an even better distinction between minor events and critical accidents.

In order not to drain the starter battery of the vehicle by the systems connected to the vehicle electrical system, long-term current measurements are carried out in different test scenarios. Alternatively we carry out humidity and heat tests, which are used to identify situations that can lead to an anomaly in the device - the so-called misuse tests.

When finally the telematics systems receive our seal of approval, they are purchased by vehicle manufacturers or insurance companies and can be used by customers - as inconspicuous small guards in the engine compartment, but with a great effect to improve vehicle safety.