The application of micro-electronics for vehicle, road and traffic management has increased rapidly in the past 10 to 15 years. The approach, however, is very often rather isolated, resulting in problems regarding consistency, continuity, uniformity and compatibility. The whole field of possible applications and needs regarding micro-electronics for road traffic, is mapped in a functional and consistent way, using relevant interrelated structuring principles. Subareas and subsystems can thus be placed in total context. A framework for integration is given. The following interrelated approaches are being dealt with and the main needs indicated: (1) structuring the road network according to function and design; (2) informational needs regarding changes in road, traffic and environmental characteristics; (3) informational needs approached from the driving tasks; (4) needs from the point of view of management and control; (5) needs from the system and system component approach. Finally general functional requirements are formulated.
Abstract