Vehicle in the Loop Testing of Traffic Sign Recognition Systems

Modern passenger vehicles can indicate the speed limit for a given road section using GPS, cameras, or both. Sign recognition systems must comply with specified testing procedures before operation. Our goal is to create a cost-effective lab environment for vehicle-level tests of these systems. Image recognition can be tested with various traffic signs in a simulation video placed in front of the vehicle’s camera while it runs on a chassis dyno. We tested this environment with factory-built systems, displaying recognized signs on the dashboard. The simulation software allows unlimited signs, eliminating the need for long-distance driving or extensive test track setups. While the lab environment does not replace final public road testing, it is a cost-effective solution for the development and testing of traffic sign recognition systems.