Using a proactive sensor-system in the Distributed Environment Model

In this paper we present the usage of the distributed environment model (DEM) to supply a proactive sensor system. The proactive sensor-system is a novel approach which combines low-resolution range sensors with high-resolution range sensors. Its aim is to achieve a better cost-benefit ratio on getting accurate knowledge about the environment of a car. We describe the main concepts of the DEM and of the proactive sensor system. Furthermore, we show synergistic effects of the DEM environment knowledge base combined with the efficient object classification done by the proactive sensor system. Finally, an evaluation of the DEM and the proactive sensor system in real traffic scenarios is presented.