Perception
Perception is responsible for converting sensor and vehicle data into representations of the real world. This includes active sensing and information fusion where sensor data is used to create algorithms that detect and identify objects for Torc’s autonomous driving system. Through machine learning, this data allows our system to learn how to visually identify certain objects and add more detail than could be provided with raw sensor data. For example, we use machine learning to teach our system how to identify traffic lights or determine the difference between a pedestrian and a light post.
Mapping and Localization
Autonomous vehicle maps must be more specific than the typical maps a human would use for navigation. Mapping develops the 3D environments and routes on which our autonomous cars drive. They work with the Localization team to ensure the system knows where it is and can get to its destination.
Behaviors, Planning and Controls
Behaviors, Planning and Controls focuses on how the vehicle should act in any given situation. For example, merging on a busy highway requires the vehicle to determine a good spot to merge into the flow of traffic and adjust acceleration to accomplish that safely. Controls is responsible for how the vehicle executes its behaviors and planning in the real world.
Infrastructure and Tools
Infrastructure and Tools manage software deployment and maintain our technical infrastructure. They also create web applications and backend tools that enable testing and data analysis for our self-driving vehicles.
Safety and Testing
Safety is the main goal of our autonomous system, and thus safety and testing engineers are critical to every stage of our development. Safety and Testing work to ensure that we can test and verify new capabilities and standardize safety protocol and practices for all teams. Learn more about the Safety and Testing team.
Software Development Management
Software Development Management is responsible for team management, including resource allocation, workload prioritization, backlog maintenance, cross-functional team collaboration, talent selection, team onboarding, career development, and performance management.
Systems Engineering
Systems Engineering oversees the integration of multiple components and software developments to ensure that components work well, not only by themselves but as part of a system. They also manage tests and deployment to integrate and test new software and hardware on the vehicle.
