The most common cause of road traffic accidents is speeding, which not only causes damage to vehicles, but also leads to serious health consequences for drivers and passengers. One of the systems that has been developed to prevent road accidents is the traffic sign recognition system, which helps monitor the permissible speed and regulate vehicle movement.
What is the Traffic Sign Recognition System (TSR)? Traffic Sign Recognition (TSR) is an advanced driver assistance system (ADAS) that recognizes traffic sign information and transmits it to drivers via the instrument panel, multimedia or head-up display. TSR systems can recognize speed limit signs, do not enter signs, and stop signs. Some can also detect parking signs although it depends on the version. TSR aims to help make drivers more aware and able to make better and safer driving decisions.
How it works: The traffic sign recognition system uses advanced forward-facing cameras, generally mounted on the windshield, near the rearview mirror. The camera handles road sign detection, and the software processes it to classify what the traffic signs mean. After traffic signals are classified, the information is transmitted to the driver in almost real time. The TSR often uses the same ADAS front camera that tracks lane markings and informs your vehicle’s lane departure warning system. Therefore, it is common for these features to be offered in the same package as ADAS.
Situations in which TSR does not work:
- The headlights are dirty or incorrectly adjusted.
- The windshield is dirty.
- Crooked or curved marks.
- Poor condition of tires.
- A tilted vehicle due to a heavy load or modification to the suspension systems.
