Generate weather at AstaZero

Purpose and goal

The aim of the project was to build expertise in testing vehicle-mounted sensor systems in adverse weather conditions. Initially it was intended to look at several different weather types that are considered difficult for sensors to cope, but after a literature study and discussion with experts in European Institutes and the Swedish vehicle cluster, it was decided that the focus should be on water spray. AstaZero now has access to a spray rig and reference measurements in real weather have been carried out.

Expected results and effects

The result of the project makes it possible to, in a repeatable manner, test vehicle-mounted sensors in a water spray similar to that produced behind a vehicle running on wet asphalt. The project has contributed to a competence lift at AstaZero in the area and also that collaborations with both Swedish industry as well as institutes in Europe have been initiated.

Planned approach and implementation

The project started with a literature review and discussion with experts both in the institute world and industry to capture the challenges with weather that affected sensor systems most. Water spay turned out to be one such area. By gaining access to a simpler spray rig, studies could be carried out to find out which parameters were of significance. This was also compared with collected data from driving in real traffic in wet conditions. The focus has been on repeatability rather than precise reproduction of the spray.