Variety of topics in practical course at Coburg University at the start of the semester

The third VAIVA practical course at the Coburg University of Applied Sciences provided students with comprehensive insights into the development of embedded software, functions, as well as virtual safeguarding and the professional field of function and software developers in the automotive sector. Interactive exercises and lively exchanges ensured a motivating start to the semester.

At the end of September, VAIVA was able to accompany a practical course in the Faculty of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science at Coburg University of Applied Sciences for the third time. In cooperation with Prof. Dr. Florian Mittag, Professor for Artificial Intelligence, the students were offered a practical and interactive program at the beginning of their 5th semester. VAIVA was not only able to present itself as a company, but also to vividly convey the daily work routine as a software developer, function developer or tester. Our colleague Alexandru, Head of Function and System Development ADAS, already created enthusiasm among the students with the presentation of our projects and products.

The first presentation was by Philipp, function and system developer in the area of ADAS & Safety Features, to illustrate requirement engineering and management. He was not only able to convey the theoretical basics, but also to emphasize the relevance of this area in everyday work. This is because requirement engineering is not yet given the same importance in university studies as it already has in industry and is often only taught as a minor subject. The afternoon was dedicated to embedded software development and the professional field of software developers. Along the left branch in the V-model, the typical tasks of all phases in embedded software development, were explained by Victor, Head of Software Development Base/Rear. In interactive exercises, the participants had to put the theory directly into practice and formulate requirements themselves, as well as discuss them afterwards. The series of lectures was concluded by Mirko, Head of Virtual Development. He explained how functions such as emergency brake assistants can be validated by means of simulated test drives without having to drive directly on the road. He not only discussed the models of the vehicle and the electronics that are used for this purpose, but also the setup of test systems, e.g. model and hardware-in-the-loop simulators.

In addition to the well-filled agenda of the course, there was also the opportunity for a closer exchange. Thus, the laboratory for microcomputer technology under the direction of Prof. Dr. Peter J. Raab, Professor for Embedded Systems, could also be visited. Here, the parallels between research and practice already became apparent. Not only are car models used in the university’s own laboratory to test the various sensors in driving courses, but the same procedure is followed at VAIVA. All in all, the renewed cooperation between Coburg University of Applied Sciences and VAIVA once again offered the students deep insights into practice. The lively participation by the students showed how important these experiences are.