Video gaming processor could improve vehicle efficiency
1 min read
IBM is collaborating with a team of university researchers on embedding a microprocessor from video games into cars. The 'super microprocessor', says IBM, will provide drivers with traffic management information and cross reference data from different parts of the vehicle and external sources such as emergency services.
According to IBM, the intention is to link microprocessors and sensors than traditionally work in isolation and to enable the new 'cognitive cars' to warn drivers before breakdowns, or signal when to change routes to avoid traffic jams.
The IBM multicore processor at the centre of the research was originally developed for video games, but has also been used in areas such as banking, medical and oil and gas production.
As part of IBM's Shared University Research Award, Canadian based McMaster University has seven members of its engineering faculty on the project, with several graduate students expected to participate. The engineers will study how using a single IBM multicore processor can improve vehicle efficiency and driver safety by integrating what are currently disconnected automotive systems.
Dr Alan Wassyng, will lead the research team and work with automotive industry partners and several other Ontario universities on the project.
"To date, our research has focused on safety critical software in industries such as nuclear energy and medical devices, but increasingly, the automotive industry is adding functionality to vehicles that is safety critical," Dr Wassyng said. "Investigating how a powerful multicore processor could be applied to manage that functionality will go a long way in helping build a smarter car that helps drivers operate their vehicles more safely and efficiently."
