Oct/Nov 2006

Can an in-cab device help drivers work out when to overtake safely? That is certainly the implication behind a system developed by BMW in association with digital map developer Navteq.

BMW's Dynamic Pass Predictor, which works in conjunction with its satellite navigation system, constantly reviews the road ahead, giving the driver information to help him or her determine when it is not safe to overtake.

The system combines road geometry data provided by the Navteq data, knowledge about the vehicle's speed, and sensor-generated speed information about the vehicle ahead. At the heart of it is Navteq's patented "electronic horizon" technology, which is said to be able to use the attributes in the Navteq digital map to provide information to the vehicle on the road ahead.

As examples of how the system works, the companies say a sharp curve, a junction, or an upcoming speed limit change would be highlighted on the map display in the driving compartment, along with the position of the lead vehicle.

 

They say cautiously that this information "helps the driver assess whether or not it is advisable to overtake." It is emphasised that the system does not currently take account of approaching vehicles, and therefore does not make pass recommendations.

www.navteq.com