Expanded ITS Short Notes for Exam Preparation
Unit III
Q: Name the subsystems of Advanced Transportation Management System (ATMS)? Explain them
in detail.
A: ATMS consists of various subsystems designed to improve traffic efficiency and safety:
1. Freeway Management System - Monitors and controls traffic flow on highways using sensors,
CCTV, and variable message signs.
2. Arterial Management System - Controls traffic signals on city roads to reduce congestion.
3. Tunnel and Bridge Management - Monitors structural health and traffic movement in
tunnels/bridges.
4. Incident Management System - Detects accidents or breakdowns and coordinates emergency
response.
5. Traffic Signal Control System - Optimizes traffic signal timings to improve flow.
Q: Define ramp metering. Why is it needed?
A: Ramp metering is a technique where traffic signals are installed on freeway entrance ramps to
regulate the flow of vehicles entering the highway. It is needed to:
- Reduce congestion by allowing a steady flow of vehicles
- Prevent freeway overloading
- Enhance road safety by reducing merging conflicts
Q: What are the uses of advanced traveller information system (ATIS)? Draw a sketch showing the
components related and involved with ATIS.
A: ATIS provides real-time information to travelers to assist in making informed travel decisions.
Uses include:
- Route guidance and navigation
- Real-time traffic and road condition updates
- Weather updates
- Public transport schedules
Components: Traffic data collection, data processing center, dissemination systems (web, mobile
apps, variable message signs).
Q: What information is intended to be provided by the advanced public transportation system
(APTS)?
A: APTS improves the performance and efficiency of public transport using ITS. It provides:
- Real-time bus/train location tracking
- Electronic fare collection and smart cards
- Passenger information systems
- Vehicle maintenance management
- Security monitoring on board
Q: What is the objective of advanced rural transportation system (ARTS)? List out the component
services of ARTS.
A: Objective: To enhance transportation and safety in rural areas by using technology. Component
services include:
- Road weather information systems
- Emergency response systems
- Public transport and para-transit information
- Agricultural goods movement tracking
- Traveler information services in low-connectivity regions
Q: Write a short note on (a) information management and (b) emergency management.
A: (a) Information Management: Involves collecting, processing, storing, and sharing data related to
traffic, weather, accidents, and infrastructure. This supports planning, policy-making, and real-time
operations.
(b) Emergency Management: Enables rapid response to incidents through automated detection,
resource dispatching, coordination between agencies, and communication with travelers.
Unit IV
Q: Define ITS-architecture.
A: ITS architecture provides a structured framework for the development and deployment of ITS
systems. It defines:
- System components
- Their functions and interactions
- Data flows and standards
It ensures interoperability and scalability of different ITS technologies.
Q: Define ITS planning with typical statements of vision, goals and objectives.
A: ITS planning involves defining the future direction of ITS deployment. Typical vision: 'To develop
a safe, efficient, and environmentally friendly transport system.'
Goals: Reduce congestion, improve safety, enhance public transport.
Objectives: Deploy ATMS in metros, implement e-tolling, enhance emergency response systems.
Q: Write an overview on ITS as a technology deployment programme detailing the supporting
technologies and physical infrastructure.
A: ITS deployment involves the use of modern technologies such as:
- Sensors (inductive loops, cameras, radar)
- Communication systems (fiber optics, DSRC, cellular networks)
- GPS and GIS
- Control centers with software platforms
Physical infrastructure includes: signal controllers, message boards, CCTV poles, and data centers.
Q: Explain the concept of layered structure of ITS architecture.
A: ITS architecture has multiple layers:
1. User Services Layer - Represents functionalities offered to users
2. Logical Layer - Describes processes and data flows
3. Physical Layer - Maps logical entities to physical components
4. Institutional Layer - Involves stakeholders and their roles
This modular approach ensures flexibility and integration.
Q: Write short note on ITS and safety.
A: ITS improves road safety by:
- Enabling early warning systems (collision alerts, lane departure warnings)
- Automating enforcement (red-light cameras)
- Supporting emergency vehicle prioritization
- Enhancing incident detection and response
Q: Write short note on ITS and security.
A: ITS security refers to protection against cyber threats and unauthorized access. Key aspects
include:
- Securing communication channels
- Authenticating users and devices
- Ensuring data integrity and privacy
- Protecting physical infrastructure like control centers
Q: Discuss the ITS challenges and issues in India.
A: Challenges include:
- High initial cost and lack of funding
- Inadequate infrastructure and poor maintenance
- Data privacy and security concerns
- Lack of skilled manpower and public awareness
- Inter-agency coordination and regulatory issues
Unit V
Q: Explain the red-light violation detection system and state its advantages.
A: This system uses cameras and sensors to detect and record vehicles that jump red lights.
Advantages:
- Deters red-light violations
- Enhances pedestrian and vehicle safety
- Generates evidence for law enforcement
- Reduces accident rates at intersections
Q: Define the automated highway system and state its uses for mitigating traffic problems.
A: Automated Highway Systems (AHS) allow vehicles to drive automatically in dedicated lanes using
sensors, radar, and V2I communication. Benefits:
- Reduces human errors and accidents
- Increases road capacity
- Reduces congestion and fuel consumption
Q: What are the factors affecting a coordinated traffic signal system?
A: Factors include:
- Traffic demand and volume
- Distance between intersections
- Type of road and vehicle mix
- Signal cycle length and offset
- Real-time traffic conditions and event management
Q: Explain the Japanese Intelligent illegal Parking Deterrence (IIPD) system.
A: The IIPD system uses embedded sensors and cameras to detect illegal parking. Once detected,
a warning is issued, and a violation record is generated. It helps:
- Reduce traffic obstructions
- Improve urban traffic flow
- Minimize law enforcement burden
Q: Describe the Japanese proposed Driving Safety Support Systems (DSSS). Draw sketches with
operational details.
A: DSSS uses communication between vehicles and roadside units to alert drivers about:
- Pedestrian crossings
- Signal changes
- Vehicle proximity alerts
It operates using beacons and onboard units to issue audio/visual alerts, enhancing driving safety
especially at intersections and blind spots.
