GPS Tidbits
Singapore has put out a tender to us GNSS to solve its congestion problems on the roads. The current system uses “tolls” with “smart cards” but adding in new “toll booths” is simply costly and causes more congestion in other areas as drivers try to finder cheaper alternatives. The hope is that satellite managed systems will make the payment simpler and keep traffic moving.
- PC World
911 ETA is new software for smartphones and in-car GPS systems designed to “pre-alert” drivers of on-coming emergency vehicles. It will be tested by Denver’s West Metro’s Fire Department later this year. Smartphones will “buzz” and in-car GPS will speak a warning when the vehicle is within 900 feet - but that can be adjusted as the jurisdiction prefers. The system can be made to turn down the radio and open windows.
Intel is developing a “black box” for cars that could do everything from video where the car has gone (to share with insurance companies after an accident), keep tabs on nearby cars (to help the driver from getting to close), take over the driving (when a car goes the wrong way down a one way street) and even report potholes (to local authorities).
