The versatility of the Raspberry Pi computer is demonstrated yet again as a team from the University of Santa Catarina in Brazil successfully uses this mini-computer to control a Formula SAE Brazil race car. This feat is an intriguing addition to the world of automation and self-driving technology.
Existing on-road assistance systems can be quirky, demonstrating unexpected behaviors like sudden stops, ghost braking, or incorrectly interpreting traffic signs and billboards. It’s curious to think that homemade systems might perform as well—if not better—than some commercial autonomous driving solutions.
This inspiration seems to be part of what motivated the Ampere team from the University of Santa Catarina when they partook in the Formula SAE Brazil racing series. This series presents a chance for students to showcase and compete with their homegrown electric and fuel cell-powered cars, aided by expert engineers and developers who contribute by refining technology and pinpointing flaws.
Since 2023, a category for autonomous racing cars has been introduced, and the AMP-223 prototype is notable for being the inaugural self-driving vehicle in the competition. Under the hood—or rather, within its control circuits—the AMP-223 harnesses the power of the Raspberry Pi 3 Model B, a single-board computer released in 2016 which is still available from various retailers.
Pairing with the Raspberry Pi 3 Model B is the Luxonis OAK D-W, a wide-angle camera equipped with its own circuit board designed for object detection. Together, these components guide the vehicle around the racecourse. Simplicity is key here; the track is outlined by blue and yellow cones, which the integrated software uses to map out the course and optimize the driving strategy. This task, while complex, is somewhat streamlined due to the absence of unpredictable traffic, pedestrians, or distracting signage.
The successful deployment of the Raspberry Pi 3 Model B in guiding an electric race car hints at a promising future. As technology progresses, it’s conceivable that an even more advanced Raspberry Pi model could conceivably match or surpass the capabilities of current autopilot systems.
The video demonstration of the autonomous racing car completing its first lap showcases the potential of combining modest computing hardware with innovative software solutions to achieve remarkable feats in automation.
For those interested in the cutting-edge developments in autonomous driving and innovative applications of computer technology, this example underscores the possibilities of what can be achieved with a blend of ingenuity and available technology. As advancements continue, we might anticipate the day when a Raspberry Pi controls not just race cars, but perhaps day-to-day vehicles in urban environments too.
