A simulation tool suite for developing connected vehicle systems

Connected vehicle systems need to function properly in a vast amount of different traffic scenarios and road conditions. The design and evaluation of such systems is therefore challenging, and it requires a test environment that encompasses the different aspects of traffic at various scales. Simulation is a test environment that is cost-effective, versatile and safe. In order to support manufacturers in dealing with their challenges TNO has created the software packages PreScan and ITS Modeller. These tools form an efficient and comprehensive environment for designing and evaluating connected vehicle systems. This paper introduces both tools. The typical workflow and added value of using the tools is demonstrated by means of a CACC application example. © 2013 IEEE