Using AI for Developing HD Maps for Self-Driving Vehicles

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Atlas Lab is a a collaboration between ‘location technology specialist’ TomTom (TOM2) and the University of Amsterdam (UvA). The public-private research lab focuses on using Artificial Intelligence (AI) for developing advanced, highly accurate and safe high definition (HD) maps for self-driving vehicles. The lab is based at Amsterdam Science Park.

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Autonomous driving

The lab focuses on the use of AI for creating HD maps suitable for all levels of autonomous driving. Theo Gevers, one of the Scientific Directors at Atlas Lab, comments: “At the UvA we are already doing research on automated recognition of items in images and videos. Yet the recognition of items and creation of HD maps in highly complex situations like a moving car, is still a huge challenge. This collaboration with TomTom provides an extra dimension to new and challenging AI-research.”

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LIDAR

Five PhD students work on projects contributing to automated recognition of items like traffic signs, 3D-localization of vehicles and combining LIDAR (light detection and ranging) laser and camera images. For retrieving data, mobile mapping vans equipped with sensors, like LIDAR-systems and cameras, are being used.

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High definition (HD) maps

“TomTom is pushing the boundaries of the use of AI for making HD maps for self-driving cars,” said Harold Goddijn, TomTom’s CEO. “We need groundbreaking research into AI technology, which is why we’re collaborating with UvA’s world-leading AI department on this initiative. This will move us a step closer to an autonomous future with safer roads, free of congestion and emissions.”