Autonomous Vehicles

Autonomous vehicles are intelligent vehicles that can carry out assigned tasks without human assistance. Sensors are used in order to undertake the environmental perception. This will allow a safe navigation, and simultaneously by sensors a manipulation of objects is possible.
The application of autonomous systems that can be used as reconnaissance or rescue equipment in hard to reach areas, helps to reduce costs and increase effectiveness. Another important aspect for the development and application of autonomous vehicles is the operation in environments that are dangerous to humans, for example, mine clearance, or for working in toxic or irradiated environment.

The most important requirement for autonomous systems is the ability to operate in unknown or partially unknown environments. The vehicle covers and explores its environment through sensors, determines its own position and stores the collected data permanently. Due to this information the vehicle independently developes plans to operate in the covered area.