Static vs dynamic ADAS calibration: what's the difference?

Modern driver-assistance systems depend on correctly aligned sensor and camera information to function as intended. Because different manufacturers engineer their systems differently, the procedures required to align them also vary.

Static calibration is performed with the vehicle stationary in a controlled setup. The applicable procedure defines the targets or equipment, positioning and environmental conditions required.

At Horizon's Cardiff calibration facility, static calibration is carried out using the specific targets, equipment and environmental conditions dictated by the vehicle's procedure. It is important to note that not every static procedure uses the same targets or dimensions.

Dynamic calibration requires the vehicle to be driven where the applicable procedure specifies it. The calibration process takes place while the vehicle is in motion under procedure-defined road, environment and vehicle conditions.

Dynamic calibration may be carried out mobile where appropriate and where the required road, weather, and traffic conditions allow. The applicable procedure defines exactly what driving conditions must be met to successfully complete the calibration.

Some vehicle and system procedures may involve more than one calibration process. A vehicle might require a static setup followed by a dynamic drive, depending on the specific platform and the systems being worked on.

The required method is not a matter of customer or workshop preference. It is determined by the vehicle, model or system, camera, radar or sensor configuration, the work that has been carried out, the condition of the system and the applicable manufacturer procedure.

It cannot be assumed that a particular component type always uses the same method.

Several factors can influence whether a calibration can be completed. Vehicle condition, relevant faults and prerequisite work may all play a role.

For static procedures, the setup environment is critical. For dynamic procedures, road, weather, and traffic conditions can affect whether the system can successfully complete its calibration drive.

Warning information and fault codes can provide evidence about the condition of a system, but they do not alone establish the correct calibration method. Diagnostic scanning is a separate process that can help identify the vehicle's state before the required approach is determined.

Horizon identifies the vehicle, the system, and the applicable requirements before determining the calibration approach.

Static calibration is carried out at Horizon's Cardiff calibration facility. Dynamic calibration may be carried out mobile where appropriate and where the required procedure and conditions allow. Diagnostics and scanning are available where relevant, and documentation is provided where applicable according to the vehicle, system and procedure.