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Character recognition system – how does it work?

Modern cars are increasingly equipped with advanced technologies that improve driving safety and driver comfort. One such solution is the Traffic Sign Recognition System (TSR). Traffic Sign Recognition). Its purpose is to help drivers obey traffic regulations and warn of speed limits and prohibitions. How exactly does the sign recognition system work? How does it detect road signs? Is it reliable? And why do some drivers choose to disable it? Let's find out.

What is Traffic Sign Recognition (TSR)?

TSR System this is one of the elements advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS). Its main task is to identify vertical signs, mainly speed limit signs, overtaking bans, and also sometimes warning signs or informational.

The recognized signs are displayed on the instrument panel, dashboard or head-up display. Sometimes it also appears warning sound or graphic if the driver does not react, e.g. to too high a speed.

traffic sign recognition system - speed limit

How does the TSR system work?

The system bases its operation on camera mounted behind the rearview mirror or on windshieldThis camera monitors the surroundings and records road signs. The image is then processed by the on-board computer, which recognizes the sign's content.

In more advanced versions, the system also uses data from GPS navigation and digital maps, which allows for the correction of recognized signs or the display of speed limits even if the physical sign has not yet been detected by the camera.

traffic sign recognition system - camera on the windshield

Character recognition system functions

The TSR system in modern cars offers a number of practical functions:

  • recognizes speed limit signs, overtaking bans, and the end of prohibitions,
  • warns the driverwhen exceeding the speed limit,
  • cooperates with active cruise control (ACC), automatically adjusting speed to the regulations,
  • informs about the change of restrictions on head-up display or dashboard,
  • can cooperate with the image recording system (video recorders), recording the driver's violations.
traffic sign recognition system - display on the dashboard

What characters does the system recognize?

A typical character recognition system can detect:

  • speed limit signs, e.g. 30, 50, 90 km/h,
  • overtaking bans and their appeals,
  • warning signs (e.g. slippery surface, roadworks),
  • information signs, such as a residential zone.

In some models of class cars top shelf, these systems can even analyze temporary markings, e.g. during road repairs.

Is the system working properly?

System operation is generally reliable, but in practice much depends on external conditions:

  • in case of heavy rainfall or snow the camera may have trouble reading,
  • dirty windshield or the camera may disrupt the functioning of the system,
  • illegible or misplaced characters may mislead the system,
  • temporary road signs (e.g. made of paper, during renovations) are often not recognized,
  • performance may vary depending on car manufacturer.
road sign recognition system - road renovation

Mandatory equipment or addition?

For many car models sold in the EU, character recognition system became mandatory equipment from 2022. In older cars it was available as an option or as part of ADAS packages. In each case, its purpose is increased security on the road and driver assistance in driving a vehicle.

Disadvantages and problems with the TSR system

Despite many advantages, character recognition systems also have their own defectsThe most common of these are:

  • false sign readings or failure to detect them,
  • unnecessary warnings, e.g. in a situation where the restriction no longer applies,
  • errors resulting from outdated GPS data,
  • delayed system response,
  • driver overreliance on technology, which may lead to reduced alertness.

Some drivers get impatient with the frequent announcements and decide to deactivation of the system, especially when it does not work with due precision.

traffic sign recognition system - speed limit

ZENBOX PRO – turn off the character recognition system whenever you want

For drivers who prefer greater control over vehicle electronics, the ideal solution is ZENBOX PROThis is a modern device that allows permanent deactivation of selected driver assistance systems, including road sign recognition system.

zenbox pro - disable character recognition system

ZENBOX PRO It works non-invasively – it doesn't require any modifications to the factory software and doesn't void the warranty. After installation, the driver can:

  • disable TSR at any time,
  • limiting the number of messages and warnings,
  • improving driving comfort in difficult conditions,
  • adapting the vehicle to your own driving style.

ZENBOX PRO is growing in popularity among drivers who expect complete control over their car and value functional yet discreet solutions. It's an effective way to manage functions that sometimes, instead of helping, may make driving difficult.

To sum up, character recognition system is a useful technology, but it doesn't always work perfectly. Thanks to the device ZENBOX PRO, you can decide for yourself when it is worth using it.

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