Advanced Vehicle Monitoring and Communication Systems for Bus Transit: Benefits and Economic Feasibility. (Revised)

摘要

This report explores the use of advanced information technology to monitor and control bus operations. Systems examined include an element which can track vehicle location in real time, and an element which provides direct digital data, and often voice communication between each vehicle and the dispatcher. In addition, a computer system manages and processes data in real time to assist the dispatcher in better controlling bus operations. Potential benefits from such systems include better real time control of operations, improvements in schedule adherence and service reliability, reduced overcrowding and in general improvements in the quality of service from the standpoint of the user. Transit agencies may be able to reduce slack time in schedules, and thereby reduce the fleet size, number of drivers, and vehicle miles operated to achieve a given level of service.