Automatic information extraction of traffic panels based on computer vision

Computer vision systems used on road maintenance, either related to signs or to the road itself, are playing a major role in many countries because of the higher investment on public works of this kind. These systems are able to collect a wide range of information automatically and quickly, with the aim of improving road safety. In this context, the suitability of the information contained on the road signs located above the road, typically known as traffic panels, is vital for a correct and safe use by the road user. This paper describes an approach to the first steps of a developing system which will be able to make an inventory and to check the reliability of the information contained on the traffic panels, and whose final aim is to take part on an automatic visual inspection system of signs and panels.