Aurrigo’s new tech keeps autonomous vehicles rolling, rain or shine

Aurrigo International has developed new software to help airports manage autonomous vehicles in extreme weather conditions like heavy rain and snow.

The Coventry-based company’s new rainfall algorithm can distinguish between raindrops and objects, ensuring that autonomous vehicles can continue operating in up to 50mm of precipitation per hour.

Alongside this, improvements have been made to protect the LiDAR sensors on the Auto-DollyTug®, which is used for moving baggage and cargo around airports.

The new software was tested in both simulated and actual rainfall.

It uses a five-zone filtering system around the vehicle, with the filtering strength varying depending on proximity.

The software also adjusts for low-lying obstacles and reflective surfaces that might not be detected in heavy rain.

Simon Brewerton, chief technical officer at Aurrigo International plc said: “AVs using this technology rely on the reflection feedback of laser beams for localisation and object recognition and, in intense weather, the scattering and absorption of laser beams by raindrops can lead to distorted signals, compromising the vehicle’s ability to accurately perceive its surroundings.

“The first stage of the solution was to design the latest Auto-DollyTug® with better casing protection for the LiDARs, which we duly did. However, the big ‘Eureka’ moment for us and the sector is the algorithm we have trained to strike a balance between the removal of raindrops and retaining the ability to detect real obstacles. This means that airlines and airport operators have complete confidence that, even in extreme rain conditions, our autonomous dollies will operate efficiently.”

Aurrigo’s tests at an international airport showed the Auto-DollyTug® could operate autonomously in rainfalls of up to 50mm per hour, passing all customer requirements without disruptions.

The ability to continue operating in such conditions could revolutionise autonomous vehicles in aviation, particularly since manual operations often cease during extreme weather due to safety concerns for human workers.

Sam Layton, regional VP of Singapore at Aurrigo International said: “Automated equipment will be needed for baggage and cargo servicing, catering, water, and refuelling. Our vehicles – Auto-DollyTug® and Auto-Cargo® – unlock the ULD and cargo pallet servicing pieces of that puzzle respectively. Our enhancement, together with other advanced systems, mean flight schedules will be maintained whilst reducing the risk of injury to airside workers, two key priorities for airlines, and airport and ground support operators.”

The company has also raised £5.25m to scale up its Auto-DollyTug® and meet growing global demand, with plans for 22 units in operation by 2025.