Dynamic Map to generate 3D maps for Japan's expressways by 2018
Promoting plans for standardization of specifications, efficient production, and map generation
2017/02/14
- Summary
- Dynamic Map Corporation founded with an aim for specification standardization
- The role dynamic maps play in autonomous driving
- Generating vector data from point cloud data with LiDAR and adding virtual data
- Constructing a dynamic map with information divided into 4 levels according to time
- Cooperative and competitive areas of dynamic maps
- Future Challenges: Advancing the timetable for practical use, improving efficiency in maintenance, and other difficulties
Summary
 Dynamic Map Corporation will utilize the Mitsubishi Electric Corporation developed Mobile Mapping System (a mobile high precision 3D information platform). Mitsubishi Electric is one of the company's shareholders (Source: Aisan Technology Co. Ltd.). |
The Automotive World 2017 conference was held at Tokyo Big Sight from January 18 - 20, 2017. This report features an overview of a lecture given by Mr. Masamichi Hamada, Vice President of Dynamic Map Infrastructure Planning Co., Ltd. (hereafter referred to as Dynamic Map Corporation) titled, "Put "Dynamic Map" into practice and contribute to automated driving."
Dynamic map are a 3D map that combine dynamic information such as traffic jams, accidents, vehicles in the vicinity of an automobile with static information about structures like roads and buildings, and are indispensable for realizing autonomous driving. Dynamic Map Corporation was established as a planning company to examine data specifications for these 3D maps. The company’s work is ongoing, and it is also looking into generating 3D maps itself.
To generate dynamic maps, point cloud data is measured by a LIDAR equipped vehicle as it travels on the target road. Images taken with a camera at the same time are also utilized to generate "vector data," which is easier to use. For 3D maps, the major challenges are finding methods to efficiently generate vector data and update it so it reflects the latest situation as the conditions of roads change every day.
The Japanese Government is also promoting 3D maps as part of the Strategic Innovation Promotion Program (SIP) led by the Cabinet Office and aims to realize dynamic map generation for highways and expressways in Japan by 2018.
Moreover, the company has already started negotiations with organizations in other countries in order to ensure that the dynamic maps it creates do not have standards that differ significantly with similar systems made overseas.
Related report:
3D Maps for Autonomous Driving: Standardization and Update Method Studies Advance（September 2016）
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