QR code based signage to support automated driving systems on rural area roads

Abstract

Automated Driving Systems (ADS) have significant potential to improve road safety and efficiency. The performance and the market adoption of ADS depend on the availability of the infrastructure that can support the operation of autonomous or semi-autonomous vehicles throughout the road networks. Rural and remote areas pose significant problems because they often lack power and communication network required for ADS functionality. There is a need for low-cost machine-readable static signage that can fill the gaps in the infrastructure. As one of the early steps to achieve that goal, this paper explores the feasibility of using Quick Response (QR) codes as static road side signage that can inform and alert machine-based onboard systems about the road conditions ahead. It specifically focuses on the applications involving the relay of data pertaining to the high accuracy roadway geometric information of intersections.