This article describes some of the current Japanese technology whose aim is either to improve traffic flow or to improve driver performance. These systems fall into one of 3 categories: (a) Those whose aim is to provide traffic flow by providing incident detection systems, improving control of traffic signals and providing driver information systems; (2) Those which improve vehicle design or which improve road layout, carriageway markings, lighting; and (3) those which enable the vehicle occupant to work in his car, such as in-vehicle telephones and fax machines. Examples of the first category include: (a) CACS (Comprehensive Automobile Traffic Control System), conducted by the Agency of Industrial Science and Technology. This project developed dynamic route guidance systems, hazard and warning displays for drivers, and fleet control systems using digital bi-directional spot communication techniques to link the moving vehicle and the road; (b) Automobile Navigation Systems, including Nissan Motor Companies System using map matching techniques; and Mazda's System which uses GPS, (Global Positioning Systems); AMTICS (Advanced Mobile Traffic Information and Communication System) which uses 40 Teleterminal Communication System; RACS (Road/Automobile Communication System) which uses roadside Beacons; and ARIES (Automobiles Roadside Transceiver Infrastructure for Extensive Service). Examples of the second category include: (a) driver support technologies such as the Driving Information Systems; The New Way System. Technologies, for detecting and maintaining vehicle position on the road are also discussed briefly.
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