The combination of a satellite supported positioning system with a communications and information network between bus, public transport operator and passenger improves the efficiency and attractiveness of a public transport system. The technical concept consists of a control centre, vehicle equipment, data provision, data communications and electronic information displays. All the components already exist in a proven form and can thus be combined in a public transport control system. Information on the actual waiting or departure times can be passed directly to passengers using the services of mobile telephone operators. For this purpose the passengers are given a small receiver, which can be integrated, for example, in mobile phones. It is possible to utilize dynamic passenger information and guaranteed connections to run a less expensive, more flexible bus operation, with the bus routes, bus stops and schedules determined by the actual passenger demand. Several bus operators in the Rhein-Main area have already started to put this idea into action.
Abstract