Autotech Terms Glossary: Autotech Terms in 2024
A
Ad
Autonomous Driving (AD) refers to the overall concept of a vehicle operating and navigating without human input or intervention.
Adas
Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) are technologies designed to assist drivers in the driving process and improve safety.
Ai
Artificial Intelligence (AI) refers to the simulation of human intelligence in machines.
Artificial Intelligence (Ai)
Artificial Intelligence (AI) refers to the simulation of human intelligence in machines.
Augmented Reality
Augmented reality (AR) is a technology that overlays digital information, such as images or data, onto the real-world environment.
Autonomous Delivery
Autonomous delivery refers to the use of autonomous vehicles or drones to transport goods or packages without human intervention.
Autonomous Driving
Autonomous driving refers to the ability of a vehicle to operate and navigate without human input or intervention.
Autonomous Parking
Autonomous parking refers to the ability of a vehicle to park itself without the need for human input.
Autonomous Shuttles
Autonomous shuttles are self-driving vehicles designed for transporting passengers over short distances, often in urban or campus environments.
Autonomous Vehicle
An autonomous vehicle, also known as a self-driving car or driverless car, is a vehicle capable of navigating and operating without the need for human intervention.
B
Big Data
Big data refers to extremely large and complex data sets that cannot be easily managed, processed, or analyzed using traditional data processing methods.
C
Camera-Based Perception
Camera-based perception uses image data captured by cameras to understand and interpret the environment around a vehicle, typically used for object detection and recognition.
Can Bus
Controller Area Network (CAN) bus is a communication protocol used in vehicles to allow microcontrollers and devices to communicate with each other.
Canalyzer
CANalyzer is a software tool used for analysis, simulation, and testing of CAN (Controller Area Network) and other bus systems used in vehicles.
Canape
CANape is a software tool used for calibration, measurement, and diagnostics of electronic control units (ECUs) within a vehicle.
Canoe
CANoe is a software tool used for testing, simulation, and analysis of communication and networking systems, particularly those using the CAN bus.
Climate Control
Climate control refers to the systems and technologies used to maintain and regulate the temperature, humidity, and airflow inside a vehicle.
Cloud Computing
Cloud computing is the delivery of computing services, such as servers, storage, databases, networking, and software, over the internet.
Collaborative Robotics
Collaborative robotics, also known as cobots, are robots designed to work safely alongside humans, often performing repetitive or dangerous tasks.
Collision Avoidance
Collision avoidance systems use sensors and algorithms to detect and prevent potential collisions with other vehicles, pedestrians, or objects.
Computer Vision
Computer vision is a field of study that focuses on enabling computers to gain a high-level understanding from digital images or videos.
Computer-Aided Design
Computer-aided design (CAD) is the use of computer software to create, modify, analyze, or optimize designs for various applications, including vehicle design.
Connected Car
A connected car refers to a vehicle that is equipped with internet connectivity and wireless networks to allow communication with other devices and services.
Cyber-Physical Systems
Cyber-physical systems (CPS) are physical systems that are integrated with computational and networking capabilities, enabling them to interact with their environment and other systems.
Cybersecurity
Cybersecurity refers to the practice of protecting computer systems, networks, and data from digital attacks and unauthorized access.
D
Data Fusion
Data fusion is the process of integrating and combining data from multiple sources to create a more complete and accurate representation of the environment.
Data Mining
Data mining is the process of analyzing large sets of data to discover patterns, relationships, and insights.
Deep Learning
Deep learning is a subset of machine learning that involves training artificial neural networks on large amounts of labeled data.
Driver Monitoring
Driver monitoring systems use sensors and cameras to monitor the driver's behavior, attention, and fatigue level to enhance safety and provide alerts if necessary.
E
Eco-Driving
Eco-driving is a driving style and set of techniques aimed at maximizing fuel efficiency and reducing environmental impact.
Ecu
ECU stands for Electronic Control Unit. It is an embedded system that manages and controls various electronic functions in a vehicle.
Edge Computing
Edge computing refers to the decentralized processing and analysis of data at the edge of a network, closer to the source or the end-user.
Edge Detection
Edge detection is a process in computer vision that aims to locate and identify the boundaries of objects or changes in textures within an image.
Electric Vehicle
An electric vehicle (EV) is a vehicle that uses one or more electric motors for propulsion, instead of an internal combustion engine.
Electric Vehicle (Ev)
An electric vehicle (EV) is a vehicle that is powered by one or more electric motors using energy stored in rechargeable batteries.
Ethical Considerations
Ethical considerations in the autotech industry involve ensuring the responsible and ethical development, deployment, and use of autonomous and connected vehicles.
Ev Charging Infrastructure
EV charging infrastructure refers to the network of charging stations and related technologies that support the charging of electric vehicles.
F
Fail-Safe
Fail-safe refers to a design or system that automatically activates a predefined safe mode or behavior in the event of a failure or malfunction.
Firmware
Firmware is a type of software that is permanently stored in non-volatile memory on hardware devices. It provides control, monitoring, and data manipulation functions.
Fleet Management
Fleet management involves the coordination and monitoring of a company's vehicle fleet to improve efficiency, reduce costs, and ensure compliance.
Fuel Cell Vehicle (Fcv)
A fuel cell vehicle (FCV) is a type of electric vehicle that uses a fuel cell as its power source, which converts hydrogen into electricity to power an electric motor.
Fusion Algorithm
A fusion algorithm is a computational method used to combine and integrate data from multiple sources or sensors, aiming to improve accuracy and reliability.
G
Gan
GAN stands for Generative Adversarial Network. It is a type of machine learning model that consists of two neural networks, a generator and a discriminator, that compete against each other.
Gesture Control
Gesture control refers to the ability to control devices or systems through hand or body movements, typically using sensors and computer vision technology.
Gesture Recognition
Gesture recognition is the ability of a computer or device to understand and interpret human gestures, such as hand movements, as input commands.
Gps
Global Positioning System (GPS) is a satellite-based navigation system that enables location and time information in all weather conditions, anywhere on Earth.
H
Hd Mapping
HD mapping, or high-definition mapping, refers to highly accurate and detailed mapping of roads, including lane markings, traffic signs, and other relevant information.
Hmi
Human-Machine Interface (HMI) is the technology and design principles that allow humans to interact with machines and control their behavior.
Human Factors
Human factors, also known as ergonomics, is the science of designing systems and products that consider human capabilities and limitations to enhance usability and safety.
Hybrid Vehicle
A hybrid vehicle is a vehicle that combines two or more distinct power sources, such as an internal combustion engine and an electric motor.
I
Image Recognition
Image recognition is the process of identifying and detecting objects or patterns in digital images, often using machine learning algorithms.
Image Segmentation
Image segmentation is the process of partitioning a digital image into multiple segments or regions based on similar characteristics or properties.
In-Vehicle Infotainment
In-vehicle infotainment (IVI) system provides a combination of entertainment, navigation, communication, and Internet-based services to the driver and passengers.
Inertial Measurement Unit
An inertial measurement unit (IMU) is an electronic device that measures and reports a vehicle's specific force, angular rate, and orientation using accelerometers and gyroscopes.
Interoperability
Interoperability is the ability of different systems, devices, or components to exchange and interpret data and perform functions cooperatively.
Iot
The Internet of Things (IoT) refers to the network of physical devices, vehicles, appliances, and other objects embedded with sensors, software, and connectivity to exchange data.
L
Lane Keeping Assist
Lane keeping assist (LKA) is a feature that helps drivers keep their vehicles within the lane by providing steering input or warnings.
Li-Fi
Li-Fi (Light Fidelity) is a wireless communication technology that uses light to transmit data.
Li-Ion Battery
A lithium-ion battery is a rechargeable type of battery widely used in electric vehicles (EVs) and hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs) for energy storage.
Lidar
LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) is a remote sensing technology that uses laser light to measure distances and create high-resolution maps of its surroundings.
Lidar Perception
LiDAR perception is the process of using LiDAR sensor data to accurately detect and perceive objects in the environment, such as vehicles, pedestrians, or obstacles.
Lidar Sensor Fusion
LiDAR sensor fusion involves combining data from multiple LiDAR sensors to create a more detailed and accurate representation of the environment.
Lidar-Based Slam
LiDAR-based Simultaneous Localization and Mapping (SLAM) is a technique used in robotics and autonomous systems to build maps and navigate using LiDAR sensors.
Localization
Localization in autonomous vehicles refers to the process of determining the vehicle's precise position and orientation within its environment.
M
Machine Learning
Machine learning is the field of study that gives computers the ability to learn and improve from experience without being explicitly programmed.
Machine Vision
Machine vision refers to the technology and methods used to enable computers to visually perceive, analyze, and understand images or video.
Ml
Machine Learning (ML) is a subset of AI that focuses on getting machines to learn from data.
Model-Based Development
Model-based development is an approach to software development that starts with creating high-level models of systems and automatically generates code from those models.
N
Natural Language Processing
Natural language processing (NLP) is a field of study focused on enabling computers to understand, interpret, and generate human language, both written and spoken.
Navigation System
A navigation system is a device or software that provides guidance and directions for drivers or users in reaching a specific destination.
Neural Network
A neural network is a computer system designed to mimic the way the human brain works, allowing machines to learn and make decisions based on input data.
O
Obd
On-Board Diagnostics (OBD) is an automotive term referring to a vehicle's self-diagnostic and reporting capability.
Object Recognition
Object recognition is the process of identifying and classifying objects or patterns within digital images or video.
Ota Updates
Over-the-air (OTA) updates allow for the wireless delivery and installation of software updates to vehicles and devices without the need for physical connection.
P
Payload
Payload refers to the carrying capacity of a vehicle, typically measured in weight, that includes passengers, cargo, and any additional equipment.
Powertrain
The powertrain refers to the components and systems in a vehicle that generate, store, and transmit power to propel the vehicle.
R
Radar
Radar (Radio Detection and Ranging) is a detection system that uses radio waves to determine the range, angle, or velocity of objects.
Range Anxiety
Range anxiety refers to the fear or concern of electric vehicle drivers about running out of battery power and not being able to reach their destination.
Real-Time Monitoring
Real-time monitoring involves continuous, instantaneous monitoring and analysis of data as it is generated or received.
Remote Diagnostics
Remote diagnostics allows for the monitoring and troubleshooting of vehicles and equipment from a remote location.
Ride Hailing
Ride-hailing, also known as ride-sharing, refers to the use of mobile apps or platforms to connect passengers with drivers of vehicles for hire.
Ros
ROS stands for Robot Operating System. It is an open-source framework for building robotic systems, providing libraries and tools for various functionalities.
S
Semi-Autonomous
Semi-autonomous refers to a vehicle that can operate on its own in certain situations, but still requires human intervention and supervision.
Semi-Supervised Learning
Semi-supervised learning is a type of machine learning that uses a combination of labeled and unlabeled data to train models and make predictions.
Sensor Calibration
Sensor calibration is the process of adjusting and fine-tuning sensors to ensure accurate and reliable measurements according to specific standards.
Sensor Fusion
Sensor fusion is the combination and integration of data from multiple sensors to provide a more accurate and complete understanding of the environment.
Sensors
Sensors are devices that detect and respond to physical inputs, such as temperature, pressure, proximity, or motion, and convert them into electrical signals.
Simulator
A simulator is a device or software program that replicates the behavior or characteristics of a real-world system, used for training, testing, and research purposes.
Smart City
A smart city is a urban area that uses technology and data to improve the quality of life for its citizens, enhance sustainability, and optimize resource allocation.
Smart Traffic Lights
Smart traffic lights use sensors, data, and algorithms to dynamically adjust traffic signals based on real-time traffic conditions, improving traffic flow and reducing congestion.
Software Architecture
Software architecture refers to the high-level structure and organization of software systems, including the design principles, patterns, and decisions that shape its implementation.
Software-Defined Vehicle
A software-defined vehicle is a vehicle that relies heavily on software and digital systems to control and operate various functions and features.
T
Telematics
Telematics is the technology that combines telecommunications and informatics to send, receive, and store information about vehicles.
Traffic Management
Traffic management involves the control and regulation of the movement of vehicles and pedestrians to ensure safe and efficient flow of traffic.
U
User Experience (Ux)
User experience (UX) refers to the overall experience and satisfaction that a user has while interacting with a product or system.
V
V2X
Vehicle-to-Everything (V2X) communication enables vehicles to communicate with various elements in their environment, including other vehicles, infrastructure, pedestrians, and more.
Vehicle Dynamics
Vehicle dynamics refers to the study of how vehicles behave and respond to different inputs, such as steering, braking, and acceleration.
Vehicle Sharing
Vehicle sharing, also known as car sharing or carpooling, refers to the practice of multiple individuals sharing a single vehicle for transportation purposes.
Vehicle-To-Grid
Vehicle-to-grid (V2G) refers to the bi-directional flow of energy between electric vehicles and the power grid.
Vehicle-To-Grid (V2G)
Vehicle-to-grid (V2G) technology enables electric vehicles to be used as energy storage devices, allowing them to supply power back to the grid.
Vehicle-To-Vehicle (V2V)
Vehicle-to-vehicle (V2V) communication allows vehicles to exchange information with each other, such as speed, position, and other data, to improve safety and efficiency.
Virtual Reality
Virtual reality (VR) is a technology that immerses users in a computer-generated simulated environment, typically using a head-mounted display.