You know those LED signs at bus stops that tell you the next 36B will be along in 12 minutes?
Well, today I learned that bus location information is generated on the bus, in real time, using GPS/GPRS, and sent, via a special type of SIM card, to a central control centre.
The central control centre analyses the bus location and then calculates that against the known speed of traffic, and the calculated arrival time is then sent to each bus stop along the route.
The cynical me had always assumed that the displays were merely a digital reproduction of the estimated time of arrival, based on the bus timetable.
I’m impressed.
Of course, the system is only as good as the availability of the GPS/GPRS signal.
Which, sadly, in parts of central Oxford is nil.
But still, it’s a great use of tech.
That IS pretty cool. Like you, I’d never considered it before, but it’s a good use of the technology.
I can understand Oxford (any town, really) having a lack of GPRS in some places, but, a lack of GPS? On open roads? Surely not.
I always assumed that was the way it was done. I have such faith.
But the thing I like about your picture is the list of extraordinary names of places in Oxfordshire. Or did you make *those* up?
But then I now live in WorzelGummidgeshire with villages called Ottery St Mary.
Well done you for having such faith.
No, they’re real places, but not from this neck of the woods.
I know Ottery! That’s a hell of a move for you, though. But I’ll tuck that info away and come and visit you some time, maybe.
🙂