Intelligent Transportation System

A. B. M. Morshedul Hassan 

Department of Urban and Regional Planning

Jahangirnagar University, Savar, Dhaka 

What is an Intelligent Transportation System?

An Intelligent Transportation System (ITS) improves transportation safety and mobility and enhances productivity through the use of advanced communications technologies. It encompasses a broad range of wireless and wire line communications-based information and electronics technologies. When integrated into the transportation system's infrastructure, and in vehicles themselves, these technologies relieve congestion, improve safety and enhance productivity. The system is made up of 16 types of technology based systems. These systems are divided into intelligent infrastructure systems and intelligent vehicle systems.

Figure: An Intelligent Transportation System

Integrated Components of an Intelligent Transportation System

There are nine integrated components of an ITS. They are discussed below.

1 Traffic Signal Control Systems

These systems measure the demand for right-of-way, shifts in directional demand, and changes in cross-street directional demand. The detectors relay this information to the traffic signals. The result is a smoother flow of traffic, with shorter waiting times.

2 Freeway Management Systems

Freeway Management Systems use ramp metering techniques to measure and regulate how much traffic is entering and leaving major freeways. The metering rate ensures that demand remains below capacity, reducing congestion.

3 Transit Management

Transit Management includes Automatic Vehicle Location (AVL) technologies and computer-aided dispatch systems to help keep buses on schedule and improve service.

4 Electronic Fare Payment Technologies

Electronic Fare Payment Technologies have reduced cash-handling costs for transit operators, due to more accurate data collection.

5 Electronic Toll Payment

Electronic Toll Payment allows travelers to speed through toll collection plazas without stopping to pay their toll. This results in significantly reduced levels of vehicle emissions.

6 Incident Management Systems

Incident Management Systems include dynamic message signs, which alert travelers to accidents or stalled vehicles on the road ahead. Video cameras and road sensors used here.

7 Traveler Information Services

These services allow travelers to access pre-trip and en route information so they can plan the most efficient route for their needs. Internet, radio, computers are used for communication.

8 Emergency Management Services

Emergency Management Services are controlled by traffic control centers. These services reduce response times, help save lives, and reduce the occurrence of secondary incidents.

9 Railroad Grade Crossing Safety

Railroad Grade Crossing Safety can be increased by using signing systems that alert drivers to approaching crossings and oncoming trains. A p redesigned system gives alert about trains. 

Related link 

http://www.gc4me.com/departments/planning_commission/transportation/docs/ITSSum.pdf

http://www.ibm.com/software/products/us/en/intelligent-transportation

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Intelligent_transportation_system