Mobile system for safety and barrier-oriented assessment and realistic visualization of transport infrastructure facilities using augmented reality (AR)

Abstract

Mobile system for safety and barrier-oriented assessment and realistic visualization of traffic infrastructure facilities using augmented reality (AR), comprising: • a mobile computing unit (smartphone, tablet) with integrated camera, • an AR engine for real-time overlay of simulations onto the real environment, • a database-supported rule module for automated conformity testing, • Pattern recognition and simulation algorithms, whereby the system enables the following functions: ◯ Simulation of night conditions, ◯ Simulation of different weather conditions, ◯ automated detection and digital recording of infrastructural elements, ◯ Calculation of relevant lighting parameters, ◯ Comparison of the identified infrastructure with applicable regulations, ◯ Class-based assessment of subjective safety aspects, ◯ Accessibility testing including contrast detection and guidance system recognition, ◯ Generation of a report with traffic light system and export function.

Description

1. Designation of the utility model

[0001] A mobile system for safety- and barrier-oriented assessment and realistic visualization of transport infrastructure using augmented reality (AR). The working title is "InfraScope." 2. Technical area

[0002] The invention relates to the field of mobile traffic planning, testing, and simulation using augmented reality technologies. In particular, a portable system is described that enables the assessment and visualization of safety and accessibility aspects of traffic infrastructure facilities. 3. State of the art

[0003] Currently, the assessment of traffic facilities with regard to lighting, safety, and accessibility is primarily carried out through manual on-site inspections. Nighttime inspections and analysis under varying light and weather conditions are often neglected due to organizational and technical hurdles. Existing mobile systems do not offer the possibility of realistically simulating nighttime or weather scenarios in combination with automated infrastructure detection and regulatory review. A location-based, software-supported real-time safety and accessibility analysis is not available. 4. Object of the invention

[0004] The objective of the invention is to provide a mobile, easy-to-use system that enables realistic on-site simulation of traffic infrastructure facilities under different lighting and weather conditions. Furthermore, the system should automatically detect infrastructure elements, check their compliance with applicable regulations, assess accessibility, particularly at intersections and crossing points, and support a subjective safety analysis. 5. Solution to the task

[0005] To solve the task, a mobile system with the following features is provided: • Mobile application for smartphones or tablets with integrated camera unit • Augmented Reality engine for real-time overlay of simulations on the real environment • Database-supported rule module for automated conformity testing • Pattern recognition and simulation algorithms for the following functions: • Simulation of night conditions (e.g. darkness, twilight) • Simulation of different weather conditions (e.g. fog, rain) • Detection and digital recording of infrastructural elements (e.g. lighting, road markings, curbs) • Automatic calculation of lighting parameters (e.g. lux value, glare rating, illumination) • Comparison of the identified infrastructure with applicable guidelines (e.g. RASt, EFA, DIN 18040) • Class-based assessment of subjective safety aspects (e.g. traffic routing, separation of traffic types) • Accessibility testing module with functions such as contrast detection, guidance system detection and usability assessment for blind or mobility-impaired people • Generation of an evaluation report with screenshot function, traffic light system (green = compliant, yellow = limited, red = inadequate), explanatory notes and export option (e.g. as PDF) 6. Summary

[0006] The present invention relates to a mobile, software-based system for the realistic assessment, simulation, and visualization of traffic infrastructure facilities, taking safety and accessibility aspects into account. The combination of augmented reality technology, automated infrastructure recognition, regulatory review, and simulation modules enables planners, auditors, and authorities to perform an objective, location-based analysis of traffic facilities. The system allows for the early identification of safety deficiencies, facilitates the assessment of accessibility, and supports well-founded, inclusive planning decisions.

Claims

[1] Mobile system for safety and barrier-oriented assessment and realistic visualization of traffic infrastructure facilities using augmented reality (AR), comprising: • a mobile computing unit (smartphone, tablet) with integrated camera, • an AR engine for real-time overlay of simulations onto the real environment, • a database-supported rule module for automated conformity testing, • Pattern recognition and simulation algorithms, whereby the system enables the following functions: ◯ Simulation of night conditions, ◯ Simulation of different weather conditions, ◯ automated detection and digital recording of infrastructural elements, ◯ Calculation of relevant lighting parameters, ◯ Comparison of the identified infrastructure with applicable regulations, ◯ Class-based assessment of subjective safety aspects, ◯ Accessibility testing including contrast detection and guidance system recognition, ◯ Generation of a report with traffic light system and export function. [2] System according to claim 1, characterized by that the simulation of night conditions allows for variable adjustment of light intensity and shadows. [3] System according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the accessibility assessment is carried out specifically for blind and mobility-impaired persons. [4] System according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the generated reports can be exported in real time and transmitted to authorities or planning stakeholders.

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