Innovations on the Horizon: Insights from InCabin and AutoSens in Barcelona

2024-10-21

Table of content

  1. RSB Heads to Barcelona
  2. Insights from the Frontlines
  3. The Next Step in In-Cabin Innovation
  4. Expanding the Role of DMS
  5. Smarter Sensors with DMS Integration
  6. From LiDAR to Thermal
  7. Automotive Trends Unveiled
  8. The Future of Mobility in Europe
  9. Key Takeaways from Barcelona
  10. Our Highlights

RSB Heads to Barcelona

At Krakow Airport, early in the morning, there was a palpable sense of excitement in the air. As three of us from the RSB team gathered, we made a quick call to our fourth colleague, who was flying in from Gdańsk, and soon we were all set to head to Barcelona – one of Europe’s key hubs of technological innovation. After a relatively short flight, and a final glance at the majestic Sagrada Familia, we knew we were ready.

Ahead of us were two major industry conferences – InCabin and AutoSens – where the brightest minds and cutting-edge technologies in the automotive world converged. As RSB Automotive Consulting, we were eager to immerse ourselves in these events. The exhibitions, the stands, and the initial exchanges with fellow attendees made it clear from the very first moments: we were in the right place to explore the future of the automotive industry.

source: personal archive

Insights from the Frontlines

We recognized that these events would not only provide an opportunity to explore the latest industry trends but also serve as a platform for exchanging insights with market leaders. Our objective was clear: to gain an understanding of the innovations and developmental directions that lie ahead in the coming years, as well as to identify the opportunities and challenges that will shape the future of the automotive industry.

We immersed ourselves in a wide range of lectures, panel discussions, and one-on-one conversations with industry experts. Now, we invite you to dive into our reflections on the insights and trends we explored during these meetings. What innovations will define the next era of automotive technology, and how will they shape the road ahead? Let’s find out together.

source: personal archive

source: personal archive

The Next Step in In-Cabin Innovation

The potential of Driver Monitoring Systems (DMS) and broader In-Cabin solutions continues to expand, both in terms of features and technological advancements. Regulatory bodies like EuroNCAP and NHTSA are driving OEMs to adopt “eyes-off” detection systems, with requirements expected as early as 2026. This evolution will further accelerate the development of ADAS and autonomous driving technologies, enhancing safety and user experience. Beyond OEMs, the aftermarket sector—particularly in ride-hailing services like Uber and taxis—stands to benefit from retrofitting these advanced systems. Moreover, the ability to track human activity is unlocking valuable insights for OEMs about who buys and drives their vehicles, with notable advancements in:

  • behavior
  • intentions
  • voices
  • tendencies
  • glare

The integration of radar and depth sensors into DMS is gaining traction, though some Tier 1 suppliers and OEMs remain skeptical about the benefits of 3D in-cabin systems. But as we look to the future, the question remains: how far can in-cabin technology take us in redefining vehicle safety, personalization, and driver engagement? The potential for transformation is enormous—are we ready to embrace it?

Expanding the Role of DMS

One of the most fascinating discussions revolved around the evolving role of Driver Monitoring Systems (DMS) in enhancing vehicle safety and user experience. As a team deeply involved in DMS projects, we found this particularly relevant to our work, where we focus on solutions like preparing safety work products, conducting in-depth analyses, and developing technical safety concepts for DMS. One of the standout topics was the expanding capabilities of DMS beyond traditional driver attention monitoring.

The potential for DMS to integrate new features such as health and well-being analysis, traffic prediction, and even detection of pets or children left in back seats opens up exciting new possibilities. These systems can now harness neuroscience data to analyze driver fatigue, stress levels, or even intoxication, while also ensuring correct seatbelt application for all passengers. For us, these advancements are not just theoretical; they directly align with our work on DMS, making it exciting to see how these innovations will reshape safety standards and elevate the overall driving experience.

Smarter Sensors with DMS Integration

Another intriguing topic was the potential of Driver Monitoring Systems (DMS) and In-Cabin technology to reduce the number of traditional sensors in vehicles. By using these advanced systems, tasks like seat occupancy detection, mirror control automation, and monitoring seatbelt usage can be managed more intelligently, without the need for additional dedicated sensors. This not only simplifies the vehicle’s internal architecture but also improves overall system efficiency and enhances the driving experience. In my view, this shift toward fewer, more capable sensors is a natural evolution—streamlining design while offering greater functionality is exactly the kind of practical innovation the industry needs.

From LiDAR to Thermal

Among the many industry conversations we’ve engaged in recently, some of the most heated discussions have centered around the shift from camera-LiDAR systems to camera-thermal solutions. This topic particularly resonated with us at RSB, as it aligns directly with the trajectory of projects we’ve been delivering over recent years. We specialize in the development of cutting-edge systems that integrate various sensor technologies, including LiDAR and advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS).

During the conference, we explored the rise of thermal sensors, which are gaining traction for several compelling reasons:

  • Unparalleled performance for pedestrian
  • Animal protection
  • Significantly lower costs
  • Military-grade reliability

This evolution in sensor technology is something we are especially excited about. We can’t wait to see how this space continues to evolve, and we look forward to pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in this area. For more on our recent ADAS projects (ADAS ECU Main Board Sample A, B, C – RSB Automotive Consulting ) and LiDAR-based innovations (LiDAR Development Project – RSB Automotive Consulting ), feel free to explore our work!

Industry meetings delivered even more powerful insights into the future of automotive technology. Here are some key takeaways that have us excited about the industry’s trajectory:

  • Road Experience Management (REM): While ME has expanded its data repository since 2014, the question remains—can we expect richer feature development? With real-time insights on lane markings, road edges, and drivable paths, there’s immense potential for practical applications.
  • Sensor Revolution: The scarcity of LIDAR systems at the conference sparked discussions on RBG-Thermal sensors, which deliver comparable results to radar at a fraction of the cost. Could these alternatives reshape our approach to vehicle sensing?
  • Market Dynamics: The decline in LIDAR prices in China has raised concerns about counterfeit technologies entering the market. As we innovate, how can we ensure we’re adopting genuine advancements?

These discussions leave us with more questions than answers, yet they reinforce our resolve at RSB to stay ahead of the curve. As we move forward, we’re dedicated to leveraging emerging technologies to enhance mobility and safety in the automotive industry.

The Future of Mobility in Europe

Is the European automotive industry ready to embrace the robotaxi revolution? For me, it is evident that the demand for robotaxi services in the EU is set to surge, mirroring the substantial popularity observed in China and the United States. The trajectory of SVD (Surround View Display) technology is expected to accelerate, particularly in advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS), intelligent lighting solutions, and enhancements in vehicle performance and usability. Moreover, the integration of Lidar technology will play a crucial role in advancing Level 3 and Level 4 vehicle autonomy, thereby reshaping the competitive landscape. The absence of Chinese OEMs and Tier 1 suppliers, who previously held a significant presence, creates a unique opportunity for European manufacturers to capitalize on this evolving market and establish leadership in the autonomous vehicle segment. With these developments, the potential for European companies to redefine transportation is not just imminent; it is essential for sustained growth in the automotive sector.

Key Takeaways from Barcelona

As we conclude our exhilarating journey through the vibrant streets of Barcelona and the enlightening corridors of InCabin and AutoSens, the excitement we felt at the start has only amplified. Each moment spent at these conferences revealed new dimensions of innovation that promise to reshape the automotive landscape. We were truly inspired by the brilliant minds and groundbreaking technologies we encountered, from the latest advancements in Driver Monitoring Systems to the transformative potential of thermal sensors.

The rich discussions and vibrant exchanges remind us that the automotive industry is not just about vehicles; it’s about people—drivers, passengers, and everyone involved in making transportation safer and more efficient. The insights we gained have ignited our passion for pushing boundaries and exploring new frontiers in mobility.

Our Highlights

Our time in Barcelona was also filled with memorable moments captured in photographs. Whether it was networking over coffee, sharing laughs at the booths, or absorbing expert panels, these snapshots embody the essence of our mission at RSB: to innovate and lead in the automotive sector.

As we head back, we can’t help but ask: Who else from the automotive community will we see at the next big gathering?

source: personal archive