Toward an Ontology for Defining Scenarios to Assess Automated Vehicles An Object-Oriented Framework

📝 Original Paper Info

- Title: Towards an Ontology for Scenario Definition for the Assessment of Automated Vehicles An Object-Oriented Framework
- ArXiv ID: 2001.11507
- Date: 2024-08-28
- Authors: E. de Gelder, J.-P. Paardekooper, A. Khabbaz Saberi, H. Elrofai, O. Op den Camp., S. Kraines, J. Ploeg, B. De Schutter

📝 Abstract

The development of new assessment methods for the performance of automated vehicles is essential to enable the deployment of automated driving technologies, due to the complex operational domain of automated vehicles. One contributing method is scenario-based assessment in which test cases are derived from real-world road traffic scenarios obtained from driving data. Given the complexity of the reality that is being modeled in these scenarios, it is a challenge to define a structure for capturing these scenarios. An intensional definition that provides a set of characteristics that are deemed to be both necessary and sufficient to qualify as a scenario assures that the scenarios constructed are both complete and intercomparable. In this article, we develop a comprehensive and operable definition of the notion of scenario while considering existing definitions in the literature. This is achieved by proposing an object-oriented framework in which scenarios and their building blocks are defined as classes of objects having attributes, methods, and relationships with other objects. The object-oriented approach promotes clarity, modularity, reusability, and encapsulation of the objects. We provide definitions and justifications of each of the terms. Furthermore, the framework is used to translate the terms in a coding language that is publicly available.

💡 Summary & Analysis

This paper introduces an object-oriented framework for defining scenarios in the performance assessment of automated vehicles. The core issue it addresses is the difficulty in accurately reflecting complex real-world driving situations, which are essential for evaluating autonomous vehicle performance. By proposing an object-oriented approach, where scenarios and their components are defined as classes with attributes, methods, and relationships, the paper aims to create a clear, modular structure that simplifies understanding and enhances reusability of code. The primary achievement is the development of a systematic method for scenario definition, which could lead to more effective and accurate performance evaluations of autonomous vehicles. Additionally, the framework is designed to be translated into public coding languages, making it accessible and adaptable by other researchers.

📄 Full Paper Content (ArXiv Source)

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