Introduction
Adoption of intelligent bus transport systems and networks provides multiple benefits for both the operator and passengers. Employing an intelligent E-Buses solution allows an operator to increase bus capacity utilization and route efficiency. Further, with the added passengers that E-Bus routes attract, an operator can expect increased passenger revenue. Passengers are attracted to riding E-Buses for multiple reasons, and one of the most important is a feeling they can control their own journey. An intelligent E-Bus solution can provide passengers with bus arrival time information using electronic signs at bus stops, smart phones, web pages, and even automated telephone information systems. Using these systems, passengers can optimize their time and depending on the local climate, they can avoid being exposed to uncomfortable weather conditions.
While onboard, passengers utilizing the automated bus stop notification displays can easily arrive at their destination stop even if it is their first time in the destination area. Another important intelligent E-Bus attraction for passengers is safety. Central monitoring of both the bus and bus driver improves safety by providing real-time incident reporting and management. Connectivity with an ATMS solution means the driver can be updated with the latest road information and traffic lights can be optimized to allow the bus to remain on schedule. As an added benefit, to attract even more passengers, WiFi can be deployed on an intelligent E-Bus so that passengers can enjoy productive connectivity during their transit. Most importantly, efficient bus utilization and added bus passengers means less vehicles on the road, reducing road congestion and ultimately greenhouse emissions.
Network Requirements
Shock and Vibration Resistant
All nodes in an intelligent E-Bus including embedded controllers, switches and I/O devices must withstand the constant vibration and occasional heavy shocks that may occur. The nodes should be reliable enough to continue providing surveillance and data communication despite being continually exposed to mechanical stresses.
Ruggedized Embedded Computers
An embedded computer that is self contained needs to stand up to rugged all-weather conditions. Despite being exposed to wide temperatures and wet humid conditions, the computers need to provide constant control of the surveillance nodes and continual output for information display panels.
Reliable Mobile Connectivity
Providing network communication to and from moving intelligent E-Buses and multiple remote bus stops requires mobile connectivity. Cellular IP gateways need to provide reliable connectivity and be tough enough to withstand the rough environment of both buses and bus stops.
Integrating ATMS with Dispatch Systems, and Information Distribution Systems
The data produced by the surveillance and data communications equipment onboard an E-Bus must be in a digestible form such that the existing ATMS and Bus dispatch systems can be integrated with the intelligent E-Bus solution. Further, bus location data needs to be integrated to multiple information distribution systems to provide convenient passenger access.
Moxa Solutions
- Rugged design with anti-vibration M12 Ethernet connector
- Moxa Intelligent Routing Framework, WAN management software AP to enable seamless passenger wireless service
- Reliable moving vehicle anti-vibration NVRs with cost-effective hot- replaceable SSD or HDD hard disks
- Steadfast cellular connections with dependable GuaranLink technology
