An approach to provision of real-time driver information through changeable message signs

Author

Masters, P.H. ; Blamey, C. ; O´Brien, W.B. ; Kerr, J.A.

Author_Institution

Minist. of Transp., Downsview, Ont., Canada

fYear

1989

fDate

11-13 Sept. 1989

Firstpage

413

Lastpage

423

Abstract

A computer-based freeway traffic management system for Highway 401 through Metropolitan Toronto is designed to provide greater utilization of available freeway capacity through rapid detection of incidents and the provision to motorists of real-time information on traffic and roadway conditions ahead. Through the strategic location of changeable message signs upstream of potential diversion point, and at fairly regular intervals along the freeway, a reasonable level of coverage has been achieved. The signs are controlled through a central computer system at the control center connected to each sign by a fiber-optics communications system. At an average speed of 60 km/h, motorists will be within sight of a sign at intervals of 3 to 5 min. The information conveyed is limited to the text messages and graphics which can be displayed, and the effectiveness of the information is dependent on the drivers reading the message displays.<>

Keywords

computer graphics; optical links; real-time systems; road traffic; signalling; traffic computer control; central computer system; changeable message signs; coverage; detection of incidents; effectiveness; fibre optic communication system; freeway traffic management system; graphics; real-time driver information; text messages; Centralized control; Collision mitigation; Communication system traffic control; Delay; Milling machines; Real time systems; Road accidents; Road transportation; Telephony; Traffic control;

fLanguage

English

Publisher

ieee

Conference_Titel

Vehicle Navigation and Information Systems Conference, 1989. Conference Record

Conference_Location

Toronto, Ontario, Canada

Print_ISBN

0-9692316-2-8

Type

conf

DOI

10.1109/VNIS.1989.98802

Filename

98802