Vehicle Safety and Security Research Group Showcases Innovative Test Framework at Cognitive Mobility 2024 Conference

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The Vehicle Safety and Security Research Group from the Department of Automotive Technologies at the Budapest University of Technology and Economics recently participated in the Cognitive Mobility 2024 Conference, held at the Bosch Budapest Innovation Campus. The team presented their newly developed test framework, which highlights a breakthrough approach to safe driving operations.

During the presentation, the research group demonstrated how, in situations where conventional environmental sensors fail to provide the necessary information for safe driving, radio communication technologies can offer a reliable alternative. They showcased a scenario where even with degraded radio communication quality, their innovative control concept enabled the system to maintain safe driving operations by adapting to the communication parameters.

This test framework represents a significant advancement in vehicle safety technology, illustrating the potential of radio communication as a complementary solution to traditional sensors. The group’s work not only addresses current challenges in autonomous driving but also opens new possibilities for the development of more resilient and adaptable vehicle safety systems.

The Department of Automotive Technologies is proud of the team’s achievements and their ongoing contribution to the advancement of intelligent mobility solutions.

Innovation in Focus: Dr. Kristof Polmans’ Inspiring Lecture at the Department of Automotive Technologies

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The Department of Automotive Technologies at the Budapest University of Technology and Economics recently had the privilege of hosting Dr. Kristof Polmans, Senior Vice President of Research and Advanced Engineering at ThyssenKrupp Steering. Invited by the department, Dr. Polmans delivered an inspiring lecture on ThyssenKrupp Steering’s innovation journey, sharing his vast expertise with students and faculty.

With over 25 years of experience in the automotive industry, Dr. Polmans began his career at Ford Motor Company and has spent nearly two decades at ThyssenKrupp, where he has been at the forefront of developing advanced technologies and driving innovation. His lecture provided a deep dive into how ThyssenKrupp Steering evolved from a “slow follower” to a true leader in innovation within the industry.

Dr. Polmans highlighted key projects that have played a pivotal role in ThyssenKrupp’s transformation, including Steer by Wire, Brake by Wire systems, and Vehicle Motion Control. These advancements have significantly shaped the company’s path toward becoming a leader in automotive technology.

Beyond the technical achievements, Dr. Polmans also emphasized the importance of leadership and individual contributions in achieving a company’s success. He discussed what distinguishes a leader from a boss, the qualities that define a good leader and a great employee, effective communication strategies, and the key elements of building a high-performing team.

The students in attendance gained valuable first-hand insights into the professional and human principles that guide the development of a leading automotive company. The event offered a rare opportunity to learn directly from one of the industry’s top innovators, bridging the gap between academic knowledge and practical industry applications.

This lecture was part of the department’s ongoing commitment to fostering strong collaborations between its research community and industry partners, reinforcing the link between academia and the automotive sector.

A special thanks to Ádám Bárdos, Head of the Vehicle Dynamics and Control Research Group, for his instrumental role in organizing this event. His efforts were crucial in making this lecture a reality, highlighting the importance of collaboration in bringing valuable industry insights to the academic community.

Technological Breakthrough or Disappointment? Dr. Zsolt SZALAY’s Presentation at the XIII Regional Automotive Supplier Conference

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On October 1st, the XIII Regional Automotive Supplier Conference, one of the largest annual events in the industry, was held at the Aquaworld Resort in Budapest, bringing together more than 270 automotive leaders and experts. Among the high-ranking representatives of the industry’s key players was Dr. Zsolt Szalay, Head of the Department of Automotive Technologies at BME, who delivered a compelling presentation. His speech clearly outlined the technological advancements in autonomous vehicles and the complex challenges facing future transportation systems. According to participant feedback, Dr. Szalay’s presentation received top ratings, making it the most successful and popular program of the conference.

Bridging the Gap Between Expectations and Reality

Dr. Zsolt SZALAY began his speech by recalling a 2007 meeting with the European Commission, where the potential of autonomous vehicles was met with skepticism. Since then, industry expectations have shifted significantly: in 2017, many predicted that driving licenses would soon become obsolete. However, in 2024, autonomous vehicles have yet to make a significant appearance on public roads. Dr. Zsolt SZALAY pointed out that beyond technological progress, regulatory and societal challenges also hinder the widespread adoption of autonomous vehicles.

Levels of Autonomous Vehicles: Where Do We Stand Now?

Dr. Zsolt SZALAY evaluated the development of autonomous vehicles using the SAE (Society of Automotive Engineers) standards, presenting the six levels of automation ranging from zero to full autonomy. He described the current state of technological progress as being in the “disillusionment phase,” where initial hype has given way to the realization that the technology and regulatory environment are not yet ready for widespread implementation.

Software Takes Center Stage: The Future is Software-Defined Vehicles

Dr. Zsolt SZALAY highlighted that over 90% of modern vehicle functions are now software-based. The competition among automakers and tech giants is centered on Software-Defined Vehicles, which are not just technological devices but comprehensive mobility systems. “The vehicles of the future will no longer be simple mechanical structures but integrated software systems,” stated Dr. Szalay.

Social and Legal Challenges of Autonomous Vehicles

One of the biggest challenges of autonomous transportation is addressing insurance issues. According to Dr. Szalay, liability in autonomous vehicles will shift from individual drivers to manufacturers, potentially transforming the insurance market. He also emphasized that while autonomous vehicles may reduce the number of road accidents, they could also create new types of accident scenarios that human drivers would handle differently.

Innovation Through University and Industry Collaboration

In closing his presentation, Dr. Zsolt SZALAY stressed the importance of close collaboration between university research and industrial innovation. BME aims to integrate its world-class research results directly into education and make them valuable to the industry. He highlighted the spin-off companies established by their department, such as DriveByCloud and iMotionDrive, which offer groundbreaking solutions in autonomous transportation and vehicle control.

The Road to Autonomous Vehicles: A Long Path Ahead

Dr. Zsolt SZALAY provided a realistic outlook on the future of autonomous transportation: “The technology, regulatory frameworks, and societal acceptance still face challenges, but by the end of the decade, we may see partially self-driving vehicles on highways.” His presentation emphasized that while the rollout of autonomous vehicles is slower than expected, continuous research, development, and innovation are laying the groundwork for a more sustainable and safer transportation future.

During the event, the BME Formula Racing Team showcased their race car, designed by students from the Budapest University of Technology and Economics (BME) and built for the Formula Student international competition. The team competes in both electric and autonomous categories, demonstrating outstanding performance in the latest technologies.

The Formula Student series sees nearly 600 university teams from around the world compete annually with cars they design and build. Hungary’s first Formula Student team, the BME FRT, has been a key player in this competition for years. Their goal is to continuously enhance their race car designs with innovative solutions, thereby contributing to the advancement of future mobility technologies. The team members, who study various engineering and economic disciplines, gain valuable practical experience through the project.

 

The research presented was funded by the European Union under the National Laboratory for Autonomous Systems (RRF-2.3.1-21-2022-00002)

Michael Cusumano’s Visit to the Department of Automotive Technologies at BME

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At the end of September, Michael Cusumano, the renowned professor from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), visited the Budapest University of Technology and Economics (BME). After meeting with BME’s Rector, Dr. Charaf Hassan, in the company of Dr. András Nemeslaki, Vice Rector for International Affairs, and Dr. Zsolt Szalay, Head of the Department of Automotive Technologies, Cusumano visited our department, where he held discussions with Dr. Zsolt Szalay about fostering innovation and entrepreneurial thinking at the university. We consider this meeting at our department a particularly significant professional event.

Prof. Cusumano, who is the former Deputy Dean of the MIT Sloan School of Management, is a highly respected expert in innovation-driven entrepreneurial ecosystems. During the departmental meeting, his insights and advice contributed to enhancing the department’s ability to better support the economic application of domestic research and development results. Prof Cusumano also toured the laboratories of the Department of Automotive Technologies, where he praised the inspiring innovative environment he encountered.

Cusumano’s professional journey is rich and diverse. As a professor at the MIT Sloan School of Management and one of the faculty leaders of the MIT Regional Entrepreneurship Accelerator Program (REAP), he plays a globally recognized leading role in developing innovation-driven entrepreneurial ecosystems. Hungary is also part of this program with the Scale-Up Hungary team, supported by  BME professional team, including Dr. András Nemeslaki and Dr. Zsolt Szalay. Cusumano noted that BME, with its technological focus, is an ideal partner for collaboration that could yield significant long-term results for the Hungarian innovation ecosystem.

Following the departmental visit, Cusumano participated in a workshop organized by the HUN-REN research network, where he delivered a keynote speech on the challenges of entrepreneurship and the commercialization of technology. The professor emphasized that Hungary, particularly the Budapest region, offers an excellent foundation for innovation; however, further strengthening of cooperation between universities, researchers, and businesses is necessary. According to Cusumano, the goal of the REAP program is precisely to increase the region’s competitiveness by leveraging the experiences of local teams.

Prof. Cusumano’s visit marked an important milestone for the Department of Automotive Technologies, as we had the privilege of receiving support from an authority who has been an active player in the global innovation arena for decades. The knowledge and experience accumulated at MIT can now be utilized at BME to turn Hungarian research results into economic value.

Professor Cusumano’s visit was covered by both bme.hu and Világgazdaság.

Jürgen Steinberger’s Lecture Series at BME: A Unique Opportunity to Explore Synergies Between Engineering and Business

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This autumn, the joint lecture series of Budapest University of Technology and Economics (BME) and Knorr-Bremse AG has once again started, offering students an exceptional opportunity to gain in-depth knowledge about the latest developments and disruptive transformation of the commercial vehicle industry. The course is taught by Dr. Jürgen Steinberger, former Chairman of the Board of Directors of Knorr-Bremse Commercial Vehicle Systems.

The title of the course is “Synergy of Engineering and Business: The Disruptive Transformation of the Truck Industry as a Case Study 2” (BMEKOKKBsM8002-00), and it can be taken without completing the similarly titled course from the previous semester.

This lecture series offers a unique opportunity not only for the students enrolled in the course but also for anyone interested in the intersection of engineering and business. As Zsolt SZALAY, PhD, Head of the Automotive Technologies Department at BME, emphasized: “I am proud to support the continued collaboration between Knorr-Bremse and BME. This lecture series provides cutting-edge insights into the commercial vehicle industry through real-world case studies.”

Steinberger’s lectures cover not only engineering knowledge but also the business decisions behind it. “It is important for engineers to understand not just the technical solutions but also why certain business decisions are made. This enhances their commitment to the work they do,” explained the lecturer.

It is rare to hear such an authentic and well-founded lecture from a high-level manager. We encourage everyone, not just those enrolled in the subject, to attend these valuable sessions as they offer a unique chance to learn about real-world industry experiences and the synergies between engineering and business.

Senior Executive of Thyssenkrupp to Give a Lecture at BME

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Kristof Polmans, Senior Vice President of Research and Advanced Engineering at Thyssenkrupp Steering, will visit Budapest University of Technology and Economics at the invitation of the Department of Automotive Technologies to deliver a lecture on the company’s innovation journey.

With more than 25 years of experience in the automotive industry, Polmans began his career at Ford Motor Company and has spent nearly two decades at Thyssenkrupp, leading projects focused on advanced technologies and innovations.

The lecture will highlight how Thyssenkrupp Steering transitioned from being a “slow follower” to becoming an innovation leader in the industry. Polmans will provide insights into major projects such as Steer by Wire, Brake by Wire systems, and Vehicle Motion Control, which have significantly shaped the company’s path. He will also address the challenges of innovation and what it takes to foster a successful and sustainable innovation culture within a company.

The event is part of the ongoing collaboration between the department’s research community and their industry partners, aimed at strengthening ties between academia and the industrial sector.

The event was made possible with the support of Ádám Bárdos, Head of the Vehicle Dynamics and Control Research Group, whose contribution to organizing the lecture is greatly appreciated.

Lecture details:

  • Date: Wednesday, October 9, 2024
  • Time: 10:00–12:00
  • Location: ST Building, Room 321/A
  • Registration HERE

All interested participants are welcome, and registration is required for attendance.

BME Automated Drive Lab at the 30th ITS World Congress in Dubai!

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BME Automated Drive Lab, part of the Department of Automotive Technologies at BME, is proudly representing Hungary at the 30th ITS World Congress, held from 16-20 September 2024 at the Dubai World Trade Centre. The ITS World Congress is the world’s largest event focused on intelligent transport systems and the digitalisation of transportation, providing a premier platform for showcasing the latest innovations in sustainable, safe, and efficient mobility solutions.

We are excited to present our M1M7 Digital Twin Model at the ITS Hungary booth, hosted by Hungarian Public Roads. Our interactive demonstration is showcasing the capabilities of our Digital Twin technology, highlighting additional applications that can significantly enhance the development of transport infrastructure.

Mihály Csonthó from the BME Automated Drive Lab is representing us at the event, bringing his expertise and passion to ensure the successful presentation of our latest innovations.

We are proud to be part of this prestigious international event and look forward to forging new professional connections while advancing the industrial application of our transportation system innovations.

The research related to demonstration presented was funded by the European Union under the National Laboratory for Autonomous Systems (RRF-2.3.1-21-2022-00002)

The Department of Automotive Technologies at CIFIT 2024 – Hungary as Guest of Honor

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BME Department of Automotive Technologies is pleased to announce its participation in the China International Fair for Investment and Trade (CIFIT) 2024, which is be held from September 8-11 in Xiamen, China. This year’s event is particularly special for us as Hungary will be featured as the Guest of Honor, in celebration of the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries.

As a prominent representative of the Hungarian pavilion, our department was invited to showcase our latest research results, helping to highlight Hungary’s innovative presence on the global stage. We are proud to present our Intelligent Pedestrian Crossing solution, which is based on a real-time digital twin framework. This cutting-edge technology brings the future of transportation to life for visitors through an immersive AR experience. Our exhibit can be found at booth C312.

In collaboration with DriveByCloud Kft., a university spinoff company founded by our colleagues, we are demonstrating the synergy between academic research and industrial application. This partnership exemplifies the successful translation of research outcomes into real-world solutions with commercial potential.

Innovation and Research on the International Stage

For our department, CIFIT 2024 is not only an opportunity to showcase technological advancements but also a chance to deepen research collaborations and build new relationships within the international professional community.

Dr. Zsolt Szalay, Head of the Department of Automotive Technologies, commented on the event:
“CIFIT 2024 is an excellent platform for us to not only demonstrate our intelligent transportation solutions but also to establish new international partnerships that can help drive the technologies of the future. Innovations like the intelligent pedestrian crossing contribute to solving global transportation challenges and open up new avenues for research collaboration.”

By participating in this event, we aim to gather valuable feedback from industry leaders and further refine our solutions to meet the challenges of tomorrow.

The research related to demonstration presented was funded by the European Union under the National Laboratory for Autonomous Systems (RRF-2.3.1-21-2022-00002)

Effective Knowledge Transfer: Successful Training for Jaguar Land Rover Hungary’s Development Engineers

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From July 22 to 24, the Safety Technology Research Group of the BME Department of Automotive Technologies held internal training for Jaguar Land Rover Hungary’s development engineers. During the three-day event, participants received both theoretical and practical insights into key areas of E/E (electrical and electronic) safety knowledge, focusing on Functional Safety (FuSa) in vehicle design.

Interactive and Fruitful Training

Dr. Árpád Török, head of the Research Group and professional supervisor of the training, commented on the event: “It was amazing to see how active and cooperative JLR’s colleagues were at BME’s automotive safety education event. The event provided both a theoretical and practical overview of the key areas of E/E safety knowledge related to vehicle design. This experience perfectly demonstrated that knowledge transfer can only be successful if there is continuous interaction between the participants and the lecturer. Thank you, JLR!”

Engineers’ Perspectives: Experiences and New Approaches

After the training, we interviewed three participants about their experiences.

How was your day? How did you feel about the training?

József Pázmány: I felt really good; I think the training was excellent. I found it very useful because it thoroughly organized the basic concepts. In my work, I have encountered many concepts, heard about them, and made decisions about them. However, it was very beneficial to understand and organize the knowledge from the basics.

What is your opinion on the practical part of the training?

Balázs Kóbor: I think it was definitely useful to see practical examples of what we had learned theoretically over the past two days. It was good to apply the theoretical knowledge in practice. I found it particularly interesting to see how practical solutions connect to theoretical foundations. The training clarified the related concepts and will help us speak a common language within the team in the future.

Was there any new approach or interesting aspect for you during the training?

Taha Özcelik: I have been working as a functional safety engineer for almost a year now, and this training was particularly significant for me because I graduated from this department. It was very memorable to learn from my professors again after nearly a year. From a technical perspective, it allowed me to better understand and compare the practical knowledge I gained at the company with the theoretical knowledge provided here. This training helped enhance my understanding of functional safety topics comprehensively. Personally, I highly recommend continuing such training sessions between JLR and BME in various fields like systems engineering, control engineering, functional safety, and cybersecurity.

Taha Özcelik

A Model of University-Industry Collaboration

This training is a prime example of the collaboration between academia and industry, where the program is tailored specifically to the needs of the industry – in this case, Jaguar Land Rover. Such partnerships not only expand the participants’ knowledge but also create opportunities for further collaboration between BME and JLR. These training sessions strengthen the relationship between academic and industrial partners and contribute to the integration of practical and theoretical knowledge, which is essential in the rapidly changing automotive industry.

The BME Department of Automotive Technologies remains committed to providing the highest level of training for Jaguar Land Rover Hungary’s engineers, ensuring future innovations and developments in the field of vehicle safety.

The research related to some of the developments presented during the training was funded by the European Union under the National Laboratory for Autonomous Systems (RRF-2.3.1-21-2022-00002)

International Youth Innovation Competition Visits BME Department of Automotive Technologies

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In an inspiring fusion of technology, innovation, and global collaboration, the Budapest University of Technology and Economics (BME) recently hosted 70 students from the prestigious Rong Chang Cup Youth Innovation Competition on Global Governance (YICGG) 2024. These young innovators, hailing from 29 countries, experienced a week of cutting-edge demonstrations, insightful presentations, and cultural exchange, emphasizing the theme “Global AI Governance: A New Era of Responsibility, Challenge, and Cooperation.”

Technological Immersion

The YICGG, organized by Fudan University and supported by the United Nations Development Programme, brings together brilliant minds from around the world to address pressing global issues through innovative solutions. This year’s competition, co-hosted by institutions in Hungary, provided participants with an immersive experience at BME’s Department of Automotive Technologies.

The department’s faculty showcased a variety of advanced technological demonstrations, including generative design in additive manufacturing, laboratory testing of vehicles, and cooperative environmental sensing with autonomous vehicles. Dr. Tamás Markovits, Dr. Péter Harth, and Dr. András Rövid led these sessions, offering deep insights into their specialized fields.

Interview with Veronica Rebreanu: An Expert’s Perspective

During the event, we had the opportunity to speak with Veronica Rebreanu, an international expert and veteran judge of the competition. Her enthusiasm for the program and the innovations presented was palpable.

What is your role in this program?

I’m a judge, evaluating projects as an international expert. This competition has grown increasingly sophisticated and well-organized over the years. I’m thrilled to be here at BME, where I see so much passion and dedication. The university’s programs are a testament to technological evolution from the 18th century to today. As a jurist, I find it fascinating to understand the technological advancements and how they are integrated into practical applications.

What impressed you most about the programs here?

The campus is extraordinary, seamlessly blending historical heritage with cutting-edge technology. The programs are dynamic and innovative, reflecting a living proof of technological advancement. It’s fascinating to see how imagination and technology push boundaries, proving that anything envisioned can eventually become reality. The dedication and passion of the people here are evident. It’s like a hobby for them, and when your job is like a hobby, you enjoy it immensely. This passion is infectious and drives innovation.

How do you perceive the students’ backgrounds and interests?

The students come from diverse backgrounds, and most have a solid understanding of their fields. I intentionally asked them challenging questions and was impressed by those who could engage deeply. This diversity in expertise is crucial for innovation, as it brings different perspectives and ideas. It’s important to have people from different areas of study, as they bring fresh insights and drive progress. Even silly questions can reveal who truly understands the subject matter, and this diversity is a strength.

Do cultural differences influence their scientific approaches?

Absolutely. This competition is invaluable because it gathers students from various cultures and educational systems, fostering a rich exchange of ideas. Different educational methods, whether rigid or flexible, shape how students think and innovate. This cultural exchange is essential for global cooperation and progress. Some educational systems are rigid, while others encourage freedom of expression and creativity. The question is, who is educating the educators? Exposure to different systems can break rigid patterns and foster innovation.

What is the final outcome of this competition?

It’s a comprehensive process. First, projects are selected based on proposals. Then, participants engage in Ignite Talks, where they present their ideas in a concise format. Students are placed in diverse teams, ensuring a mix of backgrounds and perspectives. This collaboration is crucial for developing well-rounded solutions. The competition includes a World Café, where teams present their projects to judges, receive feedback, and refine their ideas. The final presentations are judged on feasibility and impact. The process is intense but immensely rewarding.

Could you share some thoughts on your background and its influence on your role here?

I am not a specialist in technology but a jurist by profession. I was a judge in court before transitioning to academia. My experience in law and regulation provides a unique perspective on the ethical and societal implications of technological advancements. Educating future generations is my passion, and competitions like this keep me engaged and continuously learning. Being around innovative students is invigorating; they are often ahead of us in terms of technological knowledge, pushing us to stay updated and relevant.

Interview with a Participant from Vietnam

We also spoke with one of the participants, a student from Vietnam, to gain insight into the student perspective.

What is your impression of this program?

It’s fantastic. The presentations by professionals are incredibly informative. We saw exciting technologies like 3D lasers. This program is highly beneficial for our studies and future careers, as technology impacts every aspect of life.

Why is this interesting for your studies or life?

Many of us have backgrounds in technology and science, and this program aligns perfectly with our interests. Understanding these technologies allows us to apply them in daily life and in our careers, enhancing our knowledge and skills.

Demonstrations at BME Department of Automotive Technologies : A Glimpse into the Future

During their visit to the department, visitors were given hands-on demonstrations of developments of future technologies, making them tangible.

Generative Design in Additive Manufacturing
Dr. Tamás Markovits demonstrated how generative design is revolutionizing additive manufacturing. Students learned how to create complex, lightweight structures through 3D metal printing, showcasing the potential of this innovative technique.

Laboratory Testing of Vehicles
Dr. Péter Harth provided an in-depth look at vehicle performance testing. Participants observed the analysis of CAN data, emissions, torque, and performance evaluation, gaining practical insights into automotive engineering.

Cooperative Environmental Sensing with Autonomous Vehicles
Dr. András Rövid introduced the concept of real-time digital twin models for autonomous vehicles. The demonstration included the sensors required to create these models and an overview of object detectors operating on sensor data, highlighting advancements in autonomous technology.

A Global Perspective on Innovation

The YICGG 2024 at BME was more than just a competition; it was a melting pot of ideas, cultures, and technological advancements. As Veronica Rebreanu aptly noted, the interaction and socializing fostered during this event will lead to lasting friendships and collaborations, shaping the future of global governance and innovation. The students returned home not only with new knowledge but also with a network of peers and mentors, ready to tackle the world’s challenges with fresh perspectives and innovative solutions.

The research related to the developments presented by the demonstration about environmental perception was funded by the European Union under the National Laboratory for Autonomous Systems (RRF-2.3.1-21-2022-00002).