TAKING THE CRUSH OUT OF RUSH HOUR

The article describes several conventional and innovative measures that will relieve highway congestion. Computerized traffic lights guided by magnetic sensors set in the pavement, and computerized dashboard navigation systems for drivers are described. The pilot program, Pathfinder, launched by the Federal Highway Adminstration, the California Department of Transportation and General Motors in the Santa Monica Freeway will relay traffic information to cars via radio or cellular phone, and navigational systems will display alternate routes. The $875 million Prometheus program (with its navigator called Autoguide) in Europe is also described. Other proposed electronic systems include devices that alleviate traffic by allowing 'safe' tailgating by cars with radar devices on car brakes and accelerators. Developments is this area are described. Collision avoidance systems, as well as car trains are described. Apart from the technical feasibility of these systems, other issues that would have to be resolved before these systems could be broadly used are noted.

• Corporate Authors:

  High Technology

  38 Commerical Wharf
  Boston, MA  United States  02110
• Authors:
  • HEPPENHEIMER, T A
• Publication Date: 1989-3

Media Info

• Pagination: p. 26-30
• Serial:
  • High Technology Business
  • Publisher: High Technology

Subject/Index Terms

• TRT Terms: Driver information systems; Information display systems; Instrument panels; Intelligent vehicles; Navigation; Radar; Traffic congestion
• Old TRIS Terms: Car trains; Displays
• Subject Areas: Highways; Operations and Traffic Management; Vehicles and Equipment; I73: Traffic Control;

Filing Info

• Accession Number: 00493866
• Record Type: Publication
• Files: TRIS
• Created Date: Apr 30 1990 12:00AM