Roanoke Times
Copyright (c) 1995, Landmark Communications, Inc.
DATE: SUNDAY, April 29, 1990 TAG: 9004290050
SECTION: VIRGINIA PAGE: B10 EDITION: METRO
SOURCE: Mark Layman
DATELINE: LENGTH: Short
Advanced Traffic Management Systems, such as computerized traffic signals, that allow monitoring of highway conditions and regulation of traffic flow.
Advanced Driver Information Systems that give travelers information about accidents, road and weather conditions, and alternative routes. The information can be relayed by radio broadcasts, variable roadside message signs or on-board computers.
With this information, a driver might decide to avoid an afternoon traffic jam on the freeway by taking another route, staying downtown for dinner or taking the subway home.
Research also is being done on systems to warn careless or sleepy drivers of impaired performance.
Freight and Fleet Control Operations, such as the use of satellites and computers by a hauler to keep track of and communicate with its trucks.
Automated Vehicle Control Systems, from radar braking to the ultimate smart cars and highways, that would allow a driver to program a dashboard computer, then sit back and enjoy the ride.
In addition to improving safety, this could lead to development of smaller, lighter cars that burn less fuel and cause less pollution.
Memo: sidebar