摘要: |
The automated highway system (AHS) is one in which control information passes among vehicles and the infrastructure, combining intelligent transportation systems (ITS) technologies to maximize safety and efficiency as well as relieve congestion and associated costs. The AHS program is defined by three phases: analysis, systems definition, and operational test and evaluation. This article identifies the National Automated Highway System Consortium as transportation stakeholders with an inherent interest in transportation improvements. These "players" include automotive manufacturers, infrastructure builders, and state/local transportation agencies, which are influenced by academic transportation centers and engineering, communications, and aerospace firms. The AHS program is moving from "how can a vehicle drive itself" to "this could really work" status, although the process is slow and gradual. This article outlines AHS project milestones, particularly the proof of technical feasibility demonstration in August 1997, and lists the major goals of the AHS program. Five concept families of the AHS program are highlighted as well. |