13-11-2012, 03:48 PM
Intelligent Transportation Real-Time System
Intelligent Transportation.pdf (Size: 1.02 MB / Downloads: 56)
Concept of Operations
The following specification describes an Intelligent Transportation System (ITS) and has been
designed for use by rural or small urban paratransit transportation providers. Specifically, it
provides a passenger the ability to schedule a demand/response bus trip to a designated location
or activity. The passenger will contact a dispatch center to schedule the trip. The dispatch
operator will receive information from the passenger such as name, address, telephone number,
etc. as well as the destination of the bus trip. The dispatch operator will then enter the passenger
information into a scheduling software package. The software will provide a report identifying the
bus and time the passenger will be picked up. The dispatch operator will notify the passenger
with all the information about the trip. On the day that the trip is scheduled, the passenger will
arrive at the scheduled time and pick up point to wait for the bus. When the bus arrives, the
passenger will board the bus and be greeted by a message that says, “Good Morning, Mrs.
Chavez. This is Bus # 3”. The passenger will know that they are on the correct bus. The
passenger will then be taken to the scheduled drop-off point and arrangements made for the
return trip – if not previously scheduled.
Scope
This specification includes all of the components and software needed to install, integrate and
operate an ITS system as well as technical specifications identifying the operating parameters of
each component. This document also includes specifications on equipment for the dispatch
center, onboard the vehicle, and interfacing with the customer.
As referenced in Advanced Public Transportation Systems: State-of-the-Art Update 2006, the
specifications address the areas assembled in the Transit ITS typology classification.
Computer Aided Dispatch (CAD) Center
The transit agency dispatch center is the center hub for all communications associated with the
operation of a transit system. Incorporated into this center are the hardware, software, and
communication technologies to interface between the operating bus and each individual client.
Onboard Vehicle
Installed on the vehicle are the necessary hardware and software components to send and
receive information from the dispatch center. These components provide up-to-the-minute trip
status, messaging, vehicle/driver information, and scheduling changes.
Passenger Interfaces
The passenger will interface with the system in two ways. First, they can access the Transit
Management Software via the Internet to request a trip. The system will provide a form that will
be used to enter required information about the passenger and the trip. Second, the passenger
can check on trip status via the Internet or telephone. This allows the passenger to determine if
the vehicle is on time or running behind schedule.
Computer-Aided Dispatch (CAD) Center
Incorporated into the dispatch center are the hardware, software, and communication
technologies to interface between the operating bus and each individual client. This section
details the specifications for each component.
Transit Management Software
Transit Management Software incorporates advanced logistics algorithms and geographic
information systems to accomplish fully-automated, computer-assisted and manual
routing/scheduling for the paratransit and demand response industry. With integrated data
management, scheduling, routing, dispatching, billing, reporting, and database maintenance
functionality, Transit Management Software enhances customer service while providing greater
efficiency and reduced operating costs. The software should be expandable to add additional
modules, such as Automated Vehicle Location/Mobile Data Communications (AVL/MDC), fixed
route display, Interactive Voice Response (IVR), and coordination.
Interactive Voice Response (IVR) – Web Server
Passengers can automatically be notified on trip/bus status through an automated, outbound
calling system. The IVR will work with the Transit Management System to determine bus
schedule and status. Based on current information, the IVR system will be set-up to automatically
call the passenger and notify them of the bus status.
Mobile Data Computer (MDC)
The MDC module enables wireless communication between mobile data terminals (installed in
vehicles) and dispatchers, allowing for real-time updates and adjustments. This tool provides upto-
the-minute trip status, messaging, vehicle/driver information, and scheduling changes. The
driver easily operates the MDC by responding to messages and selecting operational function
keys during events. The MDC can also be set-up so that the driver will not be disrupted while
driving. MDC functionality includes the following:
• Transfer of Electronic Manifests
• Electronic Trip Insertions
• On-the-Fly Schedule Modifications
• Automated Dispatch and ETA
• Automated Performance Monitoring
• Automated Stop Arrival
• Emergency Response
• Electronic Odometer Reading
• On-Board Navigation
Audio/Video System
Audio and video systems can be implemented onboard the bus to allow communications between
the driver and passengers. These A/V capabilities can also be expanded to enhance the trip for
the passenger to include video monitors and CD/DVD players.