The introduction of automated and connected driving (CCAM - Cooperative Connected Automated Mobility) promises a significant improvement in the safety, efficiency and effectiveness of road traffic. However, the safe and efficient introduction of this technology also poses major challenges for road operators and car manufacturers.
To support these developments, the DIGEST project is creating a realistic, digital replica - i.e. a digital twin - of the road that simulates all conditions, situations, environmental influences and so on.
The DLR Institute of Transportation Systems is playing a key role in this project with the Test Bed Lower Saxony. In this project, concepts and specifications are being developed for a "digital twin of the road" that can be used throughout Europe. The prototype will initially be developed in Germany, Austria and Switzerland. Specific scenarios will be selected to validate the concept, which will be carried out both on the real test field in Lower Saxony and with the virtual version of the test field. The resulting data will be collected and compared with each other. In this way, statements can be made about the usability of the developed methodology.
The aim of the project is to facilitate the introduction of traffic management measures with the help of digital twins. This can, for example, support the improvement of traffic flow or the planning of infrastructure for communication with vehicles.
Factors influencing the effects of automated driving and traffic automation (in German).
