HD maps are digital maps specifically designed for self-driving vehicles. These maps are highly precise digital replicas (down to the millimeter) of the environments where vehicles evolve. HD maps let the computers within self-driving vehicle analyze the surrounding environment in real time and interact with it. Simply put, HD mapping provides vehicles with all the necessary information to safely and efficiently navigate the road.
Up until recently, digital maps could be described as straightforward navigation devices designed for humans. In other words, they provide drivers with directions. But this definition is changing. We’re entering an era where machines and robots are making decisions for us. As a result, we need a new generation of digital maps designed for these non-human systems.
Specifically, we require systems that can assist the software controlling a self-driving vehicle. Typically, this software contains four components.
This system is the digital equivalent of human eyes. It allows the vehicle to see exactly what’s happening on the road. For instance, it’s the system that perceives a pedestrian crossing sign.
This system tells the vehicle where it’s situated in relation to its surroundings. In other words, it’s the system that lets the vehicle know that it is 2 meters away from the crosswalk.
This system takes action based on the information provided to it by other components. It’s the part of the brain that says "Okay, I'll slow down and make a full stop at the next intersection."
This system facilitates the connection between the other three systems. For instance, the HD mapping system works closely and consistently with the location system, deducing what types of objects appear in a certain space. In other words, when a location system reads a specific coordinate, the HD mapping system can quickly ascertain that said coordinate represent, for example, a pedestrian crossing. Suppose then that the vehicle's perception system sees a moving object passing through. Thanks to the HD mapping system, the vehicle now knows that the object is most likely a pedestrian. The planning and control system then takes the necessary actions to ensure the pedestrian remains safe.
They reduce the number of costly sensors required. The system creates more affordable vehicles
They give the vehicle a greater understanding of its surroundings and improved reaction time for a more fluid drive
By using a HD map, the number of sensors required on a vehicle can be notably reduced, thus improving its aesthetics
They greatly reduce the amount of information that a vehicle must collect and process
By accurately processing details down to the millimeter, HD maps increase the safety of not just its vehicle’s passengers, but everybody on the road
The system provides the self-vehicle’s computer with much more information, resulting in better informed decisions
Captured points per second
Annual capturing capacity
Season in which the system operates