MOIA, a further step towards autonomous ridepooling
The goal of MOIA, the Volkswagen Group's company dedicated to on-demand mobility, is to bring a 100% electric and autonomous ridepooling service on the road as quickly as possible. Tests are already underway, as part of a pilot project on the streets of Hamburg with Volkswagen ID. Buzz AD; now another piece is added, thanks to the collaboration with the software company emotion3D.
Artificial intelligence for on-board security checks
The two companies developed an artificial intelligence-based solution for the interior analysis of the ID. Buzz AD. In practical terms, the software uses artificial intelligence to perform a number of tasks so far handled by the driver: detecting any obstructions when closing the doors, the presence of objects on the floor of the passenger compartment or checking the lighting conditions on board; checking the number of passengers against the status of reservations in real time and the fastening of safety belts.
Within seconds, the AI-supported software gives the self-driving vehicle the input to depart or, if necessary, connects it to the fleet control centre; in the latter case, after further checks, the control centre can authorise the departure of the vehicle remotely and, if necessary, can communicate with passengers via an audio connection.
In the coming months, extensive tests will be conducted on the interior analysis and the customer experience of automated processes will be evaluated. For this phase, drivers are expected to supervise the operations.
Advanced technology
The data provided by the internal cameras is analysed using emotion3D's CABIN EYE AI software stack, and the results are transmitted to the MOIA software. All data is collected in accordance with the principles of the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and Privacy by Design.
Ralf Sigmund, Chief Technology Officer of MOIA, explains: ‘Safety is our top priority. emotion3D's technology allows us to ‘bypass’ the driver without compromising safety or the customer experience, and we intend to set a standard for the industry. In-cabin analysis is a key element in creating the highest level of safety and comfort for all future self-driving passengers'.
Florian Seitner, Chief Executive Officer of emotion3D, adds: ‘Interior analysis is an often overlooked but crucial component for autonomous mobility services. Through interior situational monitoring we help automate driver activities to create a safe and comfortable journey for autonomous ridepooling passengers. We are happy to support MOIA with our solution'.