Definition
The application of advanced computing and communications
technologies to transportation systems management (with an
emphasis on ground transportation)
ITS Programs Worldwide
- Program for European Traffic with Highest Efficiency and
Unprecedented Safety (PROMETHEUS)
- Started in 1986
- Includes 12 automakers, 70 research institutions and
universities, and 100 electronics firms
- Advanced Mobile Traffic Info. Communication System (AMTICS)
- Sponsored by Japan's National Police Agency and the Ministry
of Posts and Telecommunications
- Included 50 companies
- Now part of the Vehicle Information and Computer System
(VICS)
ITS Programs Worldwide (cont.)
- Road/Automobile Communication System (RACS)
- Sponsored by Japan's Ministry of Construction
- Included 25 companies
- Now part of the Vehicle Information and Computer System
(VICS)
- Intelligent Transportation Society of America (ITS America)
- Consortium of gov't. agencies, private companies and
universities
- ISTEA allocated $234 million in 1992 and $660 million over
the period 1993-1999
- TEA21 allocated additional funds
New Approaches to Control
- Closed-loop control (feedback) vs. open-loop control
- Derivative control (predictions -- default and adjustments)
- Distributed control vs. centralized control
Some "Popular" Misconceptions
- The Necessary Technologies are all Electronic
- All Technologies will Improve Things
- ITS is a "No-Brainer"
Some "Truths"
- Many "Soft" Technologies are Required
- "Without software it's just an expensive paperweight."
- There May be Latent Demand
- "If you build it they will come."
- Better Mousetraps Don't Always Sell
- "Salespeople exist for a reason."
There's Always More to Learn