Exa simulation aims to keep ADAS sensors clean

Looking “backwards” will soon become increasingly necessary for aerodynamics engineers and simulation specialists. In this case, it's about the industry's interest in abandoning exterior rearview mirrors in favor of small cameras, partly to reduce the vehicle's coefficient of drag (Cd) for improved fuel efficiency and also to enhance safety systems to provide a wide-angle view around and behind a vehicle.

A key element of that is ensuring the clearest vision possible in a wide range of road conditions, including those that would create cameralens soiling. Visualization and simulation software specialist Exa Corp.'s teams now are focusing on this vital and sometimes overlooked aspect of ADAS (advanced driver assistance systems) development and integration. After all, users are hardly likely to carry a chamois cloth to clean mirror glass or onboard sensors.