Disregard this Traffic Sign Without Concern - Disregard this indication.
In the heart of Germany, specifically on approximately 140 kilometres of Autobahn north of Munich, lies a unique test bed for autonomous vehicle technology - the Digital Test Field Autobahn (DTA). Established in 2016, this innovative infrastructure has become a hub for research and development in the realm of autonomous and connected driving.
The DTA is home to 142 projects and 26 test fields, according to the latest data from August 2021. One of its most intriguing features is the rare landmark signs that line the A9 at intervals of 2.5 kilometres. These signs, though seldom known to the general public, play a pivotal role in the testing and validation of autonomous driving systems.
The black and white patterned signs do not indicate any specific traffic rule or restriction. Instead, they serve as specialized markers, providing controlled, real-world reference points necessary for the calibration, safety assessment, and functional validation of automated driving systems.
These signs are an orientation aid for autonomous cars being tested on the Autobahn. The cameras of the vehicles can determine their position with centimeter accuracy using these landmarks, aiding functions such as localization, decision-making, and safe navigation under varied traffic scenarios.
The DTA is a technology-open offer for industry and research, supporting ongoing projects focused on advancing highly automated or fully autonomous driving. These projects encompass safety, teleoperation, and validation research conducted by multiple industry and academic partners around Munich[1][2].
Last year, a scientific evaluation commissioned by the Federal Highway Research Institute (BASt) rated the DTA as a success. The Federal Ministry of Digital and Transport, along with BASt, have dedicated information pages to the test fields, including a map showing the locations of research projects like the DTA.
In normal road traffic situations, ignoring these landmark signs is allowed. However, their significance extends beyond everyday driving, contributing significantly to the development of the future of autonomous vehicles. The DTA serves as a seedbed for future developments in this field, paving the way for safer, smarter, and more efficient road travel.
[1] Projects at the Digital Test Field Autobahn [2] BASt Information on the Digital Test Field Autobahn
- The Digital Test Field Autobahn, not only serves as a technological haven for autonomous and connected driving, but also offers community aid through vocational training programs, particularly focused on vocational training in the field of automotive technology.
- In addition to its role in advancing autonomous vehicle technology, the Digital Test Field Autobahn could potentially expand its Horizons, providing vocational training opportunities in various sectors, such as Information Technology, to foster a skilled workforce and contribute to the overall development of the community.
