OpenCRG

OpenCRG (Open Continuous Road Geometry) is an open, non-proprietary data format and standard for describing continuous road surfaces. It provides a standardized way to represent road geometry in simulation and development environments, facilitating the exchange of road data between different tools and applications.

OpenCRG files store road information in a structured text format, typically with the .crg file extension. The data includes:

• Reference Line: A central path defining the overall alignment of the road. This is often a spline or a series of connected curves.

• Lateral Offsets and Elevations: Information that defines the road surface's shape relative to the reference line. This includes lane widths, banking (camber), and elevation changes.

• Longitudinal Profiles: Vertical alignment data along the reference line, representing gradients and curves in the road's elevation.

• Metadata: Additional information about the road, such as road name, author, creation date, and coordinate system.

Key characteristics of OpenCRG include:

• Continuous Representation: The road surface is represented continuously, allowing for smooth transitions and avoiding discontinuities that can cause problems in simulations.

• Precision: OpenCRG can represent road geometry with high accuracy, which is important for realistic simulations and accurate driving assistance systems.

• Interoperability: By providing a common format, OpenCRG promotes interoperability between different software tools used in automotive engineering, traffic simulation, and virtual road design. This allows users to share road models easily and use them with different applications.

• Plain Text Format: The human-readable, plain text format allows for easier inspection and editing compared to binary formats.

OpenCRG is utilized in a wide array of applications, including:

• Autonomous Vehicle Development: For simulating driving scenarios and testing algorithms.

• Driving Simulators: For creating realistic driving experiences.

• Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems (ADAS) Development: For testing and validating ADAS functionalities.

• Traffic Simulation: For modeling traffic flow and analyzing road network performance.

• Road Design and Planning: For visualizing and analyzing road designs.

The OpenCRG standard is maintained and developed by a community of users and developers to ensure its continued relevance and utility in the face of evolving technology and requirements.