How Do Autopilot Systems In Planes and Cars Work?

Here are their similarities and how they differ.
Loukia Papadopoulos

Autopilots have been used in planes for years, so why haven't they advanced more in cars? In this video, we explore both the differences and similarities between these two advanced systems. 

One important similarity is the fact that both types of autonomous control systems are not completely autonomous. When the autopilot is engaged, pilots and drivers are required to constantly monitor the situation and be ready to take over in case of an emergency. This means they can't afford to have their attention veer elsewhere.

Both systems also need to be fed with a constant stream of data from an array of sensors although those sensors are different for airplanes and cars. For aircraft, this includes data from other airplane systems and equipment like altimeters, airspeed indicators, accelerometers, and gyroscopes. Some of these are also present on driverless cars but not as many.

What do cars and planes do with all this data? How do they orient themselves autonomously? How are these two systems different? Which is more reliable? How do both these systems use negative feedback? What does the future hold for all kinds of autonomous systems? We answer all these questions and more in our video.

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