SEMINAR ON GOOGLE CAR

Chapter-1

Introduction To Car

Car is a vehicle having four wheels and an Engine which carries the passengers and is
used for travelling. Car is everywhere around us and it is upgrading its technology day-
by-bay from design of car to power of engine and automation in driving technology like
GPS , Auto shifting of gears , Airbags , Traction Control etc.

Types Of Car:

There are basically three types of cars

1)Engine Based Car

2)Electric Car

3)Hybrid Car

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Electric Cars :

An electric car (also known as battery car) is a plug-in electric automobile that is
propelled by one or more electric motors using energy typically stored in rechargeable
batteries.

Since 2008, a renaissance in electric vehicle manufacturing occurred due to advances in

batteries, concerns about increasing oil prices, and the desire to reduce greenhouse gas
emissions. Several national and local governments have established tax credits, subsidies,
and other incentives to promote the introduction and adoption in the mass market of new
electric vehicles, often depending on battery size, their electric range and purchase price.
The current maximum tax credit allowed by the US Government is US$7,500 per car.
Compared with internal combustion engine vehicles, electric cars are quieter and have
no tailpipe emissions, and, often lower emissions in general.

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Chapter - 2

Introduction to Google Car

Introduction :

Google will aim to compete with the likes of Tesla and Apple when it launches its
first electric vehicle, the imaginatively-titled Google Self-Driving Car. The technology
giant’s first foray into the automotive industry will reportedly be a high-tech driverless
offering capable of travelling fully autonomously on roads shared with conventional cars.

Rather than try to hide its efforts from prying eyes, Google has allowed a number of
outsiders to watch, inspect and even take passenger rides in its new car.

Fig. 1 – Google car’s overview

Objective :
Why would Google Invest so much money in fully automated car , it’s not that google is
investing in many industries but stepping up in future technology. It provides safety for
humans and street users. It also saves many investment cost in such as cars insurance ,
accidental insurance etc.

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Chapter - 3

Construction Of Google Car :

It integrates three constituents

1) Google Maps
2) Hardware Sensors
3) Artificial Intelligence

Google Maps :

A self‐ driving computerized car has unveiled by Google; which has no wheel for
steering, brake or accelerator, just has buttons to start, stop, pullover and a computer
screen to show the route. Through GPS and Google maps to navigate. A Google map
provides the car with information of road and interacts with GPS to act like a database.

Hardware Sensors :
Real time and dynamic Environmental conditions (properties) attained by the car. To
need real time results, sensors are attempted to create fully observable environment.
These hardware sensors are LIDAR, VEDIO CAMERA, POSITION ESTIMATOR,
DISTANCE SENSOR, AERIAL and COMPUTER.

LIDAR :
(Light Detection And Ranging also LADAR) is an optical remote sensing technology
which is used to measure the distance of target with illumination to light in the form of
pulsed laser. It is a laser range finder also known as “heart of system”, mounted on the
top of the spoiler. A detailed #‐D map of the environment is generated by the device
VELODYNE 64‐ beam Laser (for autonomous ground vehicles and marine vessels, a
sensor named HDL‐ 64E LIDAR is designed for obstacle detection and navigation. Its
scanning distance is of 60 meters (~ 197 feet). For 3D mobile data collection and
mapping application this sensor becomes ideal for most demanding perceptions due to its
durability, very high data rates and 360 degree field of view.

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Fig. 2 - LIDAR

One piece design patented the HDL‐64E’s uses 64 mounted lasers that are fixed and
each of it is mounted to a specific vertical angle mechanically with the entire spinning
unit, to measure the environment surroundings. Reliability, field of view and point cloud
density is dramatically increased by using this approach.) High resolution maps of the
world are combined by the car laser measurement to produce different types of data
models that allows it to drive itself, avoiding obstacles and respecting traffic laws. A
LIDAR instrument consists of a
Laser, Scanner and a specialized GPS receiver, principally.

HOW IS LIDAR DATA COLLECTED?

A beam of light is reflected by the surface when it encounter with the Laser that is
pointed at the target area. To measure the range, this reflected light is recorded by a
sensor. An orientation data that is generated from integrated GPS and Inertial
Measurement Unit System scan angles and calibration with position. The result obtained
is a dense, and “point cloud” (A detail rich group of elevation points consists of 3D
spatial coordinates i.e. Latitude, Longitude and Height).

VIDEO CAMERA :
A sensor that is positioned near to the rear‐view mirror that detects the upcoming traffic
light. It performs the same function as the mildly interested human motorist performs. It
reads the read signs and keeps an eye out for cyclists, other motorists and for pedestrians.

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POSITION ESTIMATOR :
An ultrasonic sensor also known as ( Wheel Encoder) mounted on the rear wheels of
vehicle, determines the location and keep track of its movements .By using this
information it automatically update the position of vehicle on Google Map.

DISTANCE SENSOR (RADAR) :

Other sensors which include: four radars, mounted on both front and rear bumpers are
also carried by this autonomous vehicle that allows the car to “see” far enough to detect
nearly or upcoming cars or obstacles and deal with fast traffic on freeways.

AERIAL :

A highly accurate positioning data is demanded by a self – navigating car. Readings from
the car’s onboard instruments (i.e. Altimeters, Tachometers and Gyroscopes) are
combined with information received from GPS satellites to make sure the car knows
exactly where it is.

COMPUTER :
Car’s central computer holds all the information that is fed from various sensors so to
analyze the data, steering and acceleration and brakes are adjusted accordingly. Not only
traffic laws, but also the unspoken assumption of road users is needed to understand by
the computer.

ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE :
Artificial Intelligence provides the autonomous car with real time decisions. Data
obtained from the Hardware Sensors and Google Maps are sent to A.I for determining the
acceleration i.e. how fast it is; when to slow down/stop and to steer the wheel. The main
goal of A.I is to drive the passenger safely and legally to his destination.
With its rotund proportions and friendly, face-like front end, the Google Car looks unlike
anything else on the road. Its styling is, in many ways, more reminiscent of a kitchen
appliance or a large child’s toy than a car – its bulbous shape does, however, give the
roof-mounted guidance system an unobstructed view of the road ahead.The prototype’s
short overhangs and black painted protruding sensors may be modified for mass
production and to meet stringent crash test requirements, however. It’s not yet clear
whether versions later on will offer more passenger space.

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Self-Driving Car – interior :

The Google Car is designed to be an autonomous self-driving vehicle and, as a result, has
no steering wheel or pedals. Instead it’s been fitted with two seats and a simplified
dashboard with a single screen that displays the planned route. The large windows and
tall, curved roof help maximize the cabin space and make it feel as airy and as spacious
as possible. Crucially, two cup holders are fitted as standard .The Google car does come
with one crucial button mounted on the central armrest that allows its passengers to
instantly shut off all on board systems in the event of an emergency. This feature has
been installed to comply with autonomous vehicle regulations in Nevada and Florida.

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Chapter - 4

Working of Google car

The Google Car is powered by an electric motor and a compact battery pack. No official
details regarding range or charging times have been released but these early prototypes
can reportedly reach a top speed of 25mph – enough to comfortably cruise through
congested cities or quiet residential areas.

Destination is set by “The Driver” and software of car calculates a route and starts on its
way. LIDAR, a rotating, roof mounted sensor monitors and scans a range of 60‐ meters
around the surroundings of car and creates rudimentary detailed 3‐D map of immediate
area. An ultrasonic sensor mounted on left rear wheel monitors movements to detect
position of the car relative to 3‐D map.

DISTANCE SENSORS mounted on front and rear bumpers calculate distances to

obstacles. All the sensors are connected to Artificial intelligence software in the car and
has input from Google VIDEO CAMERAS and street view. Artificial Intelligence
stimulates the real time decisions and human perceptions o control actions such as
acceleration, steering and brakes.

The surface installed in the car consults with Google Maps for advance notification of
things like landmarks, traffic signals and lights. To take control of the vehicle by human
is also allowed by override function.

AN END TO TRAFFIC JAMS FOREVER :

Autonomous cars will be able to “talk” to each other and navigate safely by knowing
where they are, by using RADAR, CAMERAS, GPS, SENSORS and Wireless
Technology in relation to other vehicles and by means with connectivity they can
communicate with obstacle like traffic signals. As a result traffic flow becomes smoother;
an end to traffic jams and greater safety would be achieved by illuminating the frustration
and dangerous driving that’s often triggered by sitting in heavy congestion for ages.
When it comes to sustainability, the self‐driving car also holds great promise by figuring
out the most –direct, least traffic jammed route by driving without quickly accelerating or
breaking too hard, all which leads to saving on fuel consumption.

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Google Self-Driving Car – price and release date

Although the Google Car has been testing its autonomous features for more than six years
– during which it’s covered more than 1.5 million miles – the car’s official launch may
still be a few years away

Fig. 3 – Actual Testing Of Google Car

Google has also been spotted testing a fleet Lexus RX SUVs fitted with an array of
cameras and laser measuring systems to create detailed maps of many US cities. This
would suggest that, at the very least, it’s expanding its vehicle development program
across the United States.

This early prototype could be the first in a line of vehicles designed to offer a more
flexible alternative to current public transport systems. As a result, the Google Car may
never actually be available for purchase – rather you could hire one for short journeys as
you would a modern taxi.

A second possibility is that the prototype in these images is a testbed for autonomous
driving software that Google plans to license to other car manufacturers in the future.
Tesla has shown it’s capable of developing its own autonomous driving software but the
prohibitive cost and potentially dangerous early testing phase could make buying a tried
and tested Google system more attractive to many car makers.

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Chapter - 5

Pros & Cons Of Google Car

Pros:

 Without the need for a driver, cars could become mini-leisure rooms. There would
be more space and no need for everyone to face forwards. Entertainment
technology, such as video screens, could be used to lighten long journeys without
the concern of distracting the driver.
 Over 80% of car crashes in the USA are caused by driver error. There would be
no bad drivers and less mistakes on the roads, if all vehicles became driverless.
Drunk and drugged drivers would also be a thing of the past.
 Travelers would be able to journey overnight and sleep for the duration.
 Traffic could be coordinated more easily in urban areas to prevent long tailbacks
at busy times. Commute times could be reduced drastically.
 Reduced or non-existent fatigue from driving, plus arguments over directions and
navigation would be a thing of the past.
 Sensory technology could potentially perceive the environment better than human
senses, seeing farther ahead, better in poor visibility, detecting smaller and more
subtle obstacles, more reasons for less traffic accidents.
 Speed limits could be increased to reflect the safer driving, shortening journey
times.
 Parking the vehicle and difficult maneuvering would be less stressful and require
no special skills. The car could even just drop you off and then go and park itself.
 People who historically have difficulties with driving, such as disabled people and
older citizens, as well as the very young, would be able to experience the freedom
of car travel. There would be no need for drivers' licenses or driving tests.
 Autonomous vehicles could bring about a massive reduction in insurance
premiums for car owners.
 Efficient travel also means fuel savings, cutting costs.
 Reduced need for safety gaps means that road capacities for vehicles would be
significantly increased.
 Passengers should experience a smoother riding experience.
 Self-aware cars would lead to a reduction in car theft

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Cons :
 Driverless cars would likely be out of the price range of most ordinary
people when generally introduced, likely costing over $100,000.
 Truck drivers and taxi drivers will eventually lose their jobs, as autonomous
vehicles take over.
 A computer malfunction, even just a minor glitch, could cause worse crashes
than anything that human error might bring about.
 If the car crashes, without a driver, who's fault is it: Google/the software
designer, or the owner of the vehicle?
 The cars would rely on the collection of location and user information,
creating major privacy concerns.
 Hackers getting into the vehicle's software and controlling or affecting its
operation would be a major security worry.
 There are problems currently with autonomous vehicles operating in certain
types of weather. Heavy rain interferes with roof-mounted laser sensors, and
snow can interfere with its cameras.
 Reading human road signs is challenging for a robot.
 As drivers become more and more used to not driving, their proficiency and
experience will diminish. Should they then need to drive under certain
circumstances, there may be problems.
 The road system and infrastructure would likely need major upgrades for
driverless vehicles to operate on them. Traffic and street lights, for instance,
would likely all need altering.
 Self-driving cars would be great news for terrorists, as they could be loaded
with explosives and used as moving bombs.
 Ethical problems could arise which a machine might struggle to deal with.
Faced with a choice between plowing into a group of schoolchildren or going
off a bridge and killing all its passengers, what does the vehicle do? Should
the vehicle always swerve to avoid animals in the road or always prioritize
the safety and comfort of passengers?
 Human behavior such as hand signals are difficult for a computer to
understand.
 How would the police interact with driverless vehicles, especially in the case
of accidents or crimes?

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Chapter - 6
CONCLUSION
Currently, there are many different technologies available that can assist in creating
autonomous vehicle systems. Items such as GPS, automated cruise control, and lane
keeping assistance are available to consumers on some luxury vehicles. The combination
of these technologies and other systems such as video based lane analysis, steering and
brake actuation systems, and the programs necessary to control all of the components will
become a fully autonomous system. The problem is winning the trust of the people to
allow a computer to drive a vehicle for them ,because of this, there must be research and
testing done over and over again to assure a near fool proof final product. The product
will not be accepted instantly, but overtime as the systems become more widely used
people will realize the benefits of it. The implementation of autonomous vehicles will
bring up the problem of replacing humans with computers that can do the work for them.
There will not be an instant change in society, but it will become more apparent over time
as they are integrated into society.

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Chapter - 7

REFERANCE
[1] Thorsten Lunette, Michael Himmelsbach, and Hans-Joachim Wuensche, Autonomous
Ground Vehicles-Concepts and a Path to the Future, Vol. 100, May 13th,Proceedings of
the IEEE,2012

[2] S. Thrum, W. Burgard, and D. Fox, Probabilistic Robotics (Intelligent Robotics and
Autonomous Agents), 2001

[3] Nilotpal Chakraborty, Raghvendra Singh Patel, Intelligent Agents and Autonomous
Cars: A Case Study, International Journal of Engineering Research Technology (IJERT),
ISSN: 2278-0181, Vol. 2 Issue 1, January- 2013

[4] Dragomir Anguelov, Carole Dulong, Daniel Filip, Christian Frueh, Stphane Lafon
Google Street View: Capturing the World at Street Level, International Journal of
Engineering Research Technology (IJERT), Vol.43, Issue: 6

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