ARPA 2 - Qualification of perception systems in harsh environmental conditions (rain, fog, night) 

This service addresses the need to test and validate the performance of detection systems used in agricultural robots, specifically under challenging environmental conditions like rain, fog, and night, reducing the risk of accidents in the field. Before the service, the customer has a robot or detection system but lacks critical information about how well it runs in such challenging environments, especially regarding safety. After the service, the customer receives a detailed report showing how accurately the system detects obstacles and whether it triggers the necessary safety signals under various conditions. The test identifies issues like missed detections or false alarms, ensuring the robot can perform safely in adverse weather scenarios. The final test report is produced and reviewed by the test operator. 

Testing is available year-round, with possible restrictions related to service demand. The test lasts approximately three days, depending on the conditions established during the technical meeting. The service involves testing the detection system or robot in a controlled environment at the "PAVIN Fog & Rain" platform in CEREMA, Clermont-Ferrand (France). Tests are conducted in static positions under varying rain and fog conditions, observing for safety-critical issues like missed detections or false alarms. Customers will receive a detailed test report outlining the system's performance. The robot's technical and user manuals must be submitted in advance. The manufacturer's representative will oversee the process and ensure the system performs as expected during the test. Customers will receive a detailed test report outlining the system's performance. The robot's technical and user manuals must be submitted in advance. The manufacturer's representative will oversee the process and ensure the system performs as expected during the test.

The ARPA2 test can be customised to focus on specific safety features manufacturers wish to evaluate. These features are jointly established before testing. However, the tests specifically determine the detection system's accuracy and safety under harsh conditions. Some limitations exist, such as the need for a manufacturer's technical representative to be present during the test and the requirement to provide technical manuals in advance.