iTest AI Vision Feature
Non-Intrusive Measurement of Human-Readable Signals
Modern vehicle development environments generate vast amounts of data—but not all critical signals are accessible through traditional networks like CAN, LIN, or ECU interfaces. Human-readable outputs—instrument clusters, indicators, and physical controls—remain essential to validating real-world system behavior.
A&D Technology’s AI Vision, a feature in the 4.6 version of iTest, introduces a new measurement layer: the ability to extract engineering data directly from visual sources. By combining camera systems with advanced AI-based image processing, engineers can convert what a human sees—gauges, lights, displays, and mechanical movement—into accurate, traceable test data.
This approach enables independent validation, reduces system integration complexity, and expands test coverage across simulation, dynamometer, and real-world environments.
What Is AI Vision?
AI Vision is a vision-based data acquisition method that captures video of vehicle components or test systems and uses artificial intelligence to extract meaningful engineering values.
The system:
- Observes physical elements such as needles, indicator lights, and angles of moving components
- Detects angles and states in real time
- Converts visual information into calibrated engineering units (e.g., RPM, speed, temperature) using iTest calculations.
- Logs results alongside traditional signals within A&D’s iTest platform
This creates the powerful ability to measure system outputs without requiring direct access to internal data streams.
Why AI Vision Matters in Vehicle Testing
AI Vision addresses several common challenges in mobility R&D:
- Limited or restricted access to proprietary vehicle networks
- Legacy systems without digital outputs
- The need for independent verification of human-machine interfaces (HMI)
- Manual data collection processes prone to error
- Gaps between simulation signals and real-world display behavior
By bridging these gaps, AI Vision enhances both test coverage and confidence in results.
Key Use Cases in Vehicle Testing
- Instrument Cluster Validation
AI Vision enables automated reading of instrument clusters, including:
- Speedometer and tachometer needle angles
- Temperature, fuel, and pressure gauges
- Warning indicator lights such as check engine, ABS, or traction control
Application:
Validate that displayed values match commanded signals from HILS (Hardware-in-the-Loop) Simulation systems or real vehicle inputs—ensuring accuracy from signal generation to human-visible output.
- Steering Wheel Angle Measurement
Vision systems can track steering wheel rotation and calculate angular position.
Application:
- Driver input analysis during simulation or road testing
- Correlating steering behavior with vehicle response
- Supporting human factors development and ADAS validation
- Pedal and Driver Control Monitoring
AI Vision can measure:
- Accelerator and brake pedal position
- Gear selector states (PRND, manual gears)
Application:
- Non-intrusive driver behavior analysis
- Transmission and calibration testing
- Eliminating the need for additional sensors in retrofit environments
- Warning Light and Indicator Detection
The system identifies:
- On/off states of dashboard warning lights
- Flashing frequency and timing patterns
Application:
- Validation during fault condition testing
- Automated verification of indicator behavior
- End-of-line inspection and durability testing
- Test Cell and Dyno Integration
AI Vision extends beyond vehicles into test facilities:
- Monitoring analog gauges on engine or battery test stands
- Capturing values from standalone panels
Application:
Integrate with iTest to automate data collection from legacy or third-party equipment, eliminating manual recording.
A New Layer of Test Intelligence
AI Vision transforms cameras into engineering instruments—unlocking measurement capabilities that were previously difficult, invasive, or impossible.
By capturing what humans see and converting it into actionable data, A&D Technology enables:
- More complete system validation
- Faster test setup and integration
- Reduced instrumentation complexity
- Increased confidence in end-user experience
Contact us to get access to the latest version of iTest with AI Vision.
