Evaluation Framework for Sensor Configuration Impact on Deep Learning-Based Perception

Abstract

Current research on automotive perception systems predominantly focusses on either improving the performance of sensor technology or enhancing the perception functions in isolation. High-level perception functions are increasingly based on deep learning (DL) models due to their improved performance and generalisability compared to traditional algorithms. Despite the vital need to evaluate the performance of DL-based perception functions under real-world conditions using onboard sensor inputs, there is a lack of frameworks to implement such systematic evaluations. This paper presents a versatile framework to evaluate the impact of perception sensor modalities and parameter settings on DL-based perception functions. Using a simulation environment, the framework facilitates sensor modality selection and parameter tuning under different operational design domain conditions. Its effectiveness is demonstrated through a case study involving a state-of-the-art surround trajectory prediction model, highlighting performance differences across the sensor modalities radar and camera. Different settings for the parameter, horizontal field of view (HFOV) were evaluated to identify the optimal configuration. The results indicate that a radar sensor with a narrow HFOV is the most suitable configuration for the evaluated perception algorithm. The proposed framework offers a holistic approach to the design of the perception sensor suite, significantly contributing to the development of robust perception systems for automated driving systems.