The Role of ODDs in ADS Simulation
In simulation-based validation of automated driving systems (ADS), the Operational Design Domain (ODD) defines the environmental, spatial, and regulatory scope in which a system is expected to operate. A well-specified ODD is essential to ensure scenario relevance, test coverage, and traceability. Without it, virtual test campaigns risk becoming fragmented and unverifiable.
The ODD serves as a formal boundary for simulation inputs, test logic, and result interpretation. It is not a static document but an active configuration that directly influences what is tested and how performance is evaluated.
Structuring the ODD with ReplicaR
To address this requirement, the ReplicaR toolchain integrates ODD definition as the first step in the simulation workflow. The dedicated feature MyODD supports structured and standards-aligned ODD specification in accordance with ISO 34503.
Engineers begin by defining spatial boundaries—drawing regions, routes, and waypoints that represent the intended deployment space. These can be refined using inclusion, exclusion, or conditional logic, providing granular control over which sub-areas apply under which conditions.
On top of this spatial structure, constraints such as speed limits, lighting conditions, weather windows, and applicable traffic rules can be layered. These inputs are configured via an interactive graphical interface designed to facilitate efficient editing and reuse.
Once defined, the ODD is locked and propagated throughout the ReplicaR toolchain. This ensures all modules—MyScenarios, AutoScenarios, TestSuites, and ScenRun—operate within the same constraints, promoting consistency and repeatability.
Standards Compliance and Coverage Verification
All ODD specifications in MyODD follow the structure and terminology defined in ISO 34503. This ensures that configurations are compatible with emerging industry standards and can be exported in machine-readable formats for regulatory reporting and audit readiness.
To support scenario completeness, MyODD includes coverage verification functionality. This enables engineering teams to validate that all relevant aspects of the ODD are reflected in the scenario sets under test—closing the loop between operational scope and test execution.
To explore how structured ODD definition can support your ADS validation workflow, get in touch with our engineering team for a demonstration.