This paper describes an enhanced client-server architecture for a traffic information system that can be used to provide travellers with realtime traffic information on the Internet. The proposed client-server architecture is discussed in the context of a prototype software package (MelTrans) that was developed to display realtime traffic information for the Tullamarine Freeway in Melbourne. Unlike other Internet-based applications where the user downloads a static congestion map, this application is designed to run on the client (user) computer and access the Internet to retrieve only the realtime traffic data from the road authority's data server. Using a graphical interface and a client-based map of the freeway, the software provides the user with information on congestion levels, travel speeds and realtime estimates of travel times between specific locations on the facility. This process is much faster than downloading an updated congestion map and allows the traffic data server to process many more clients concurrently and more efficiently. The proposed client-server architecture includes a number of enhanced features such as personalised travel information, traffic prediction, incident information and dynamic route guidance and navigation instructions. The prototype developed in this study clearly demonstrates the feasibility of implementing the enhanced client-server architecture as a basis for an Internet-based traveller information system for the Sydney 2000 Olympics. (A)
Abstract