The `COMPASS' advanced traffic management system implemented in Toronto in 1991 is notable for its use of a 100% fibre optic communications network and multicolour clustered LED variable message signs. It comprises a) a vehicle detection subsystem, b) a closed circuit television subsystem, c) a variable message sign subsystem, d) a central computerised system with customised software, e) a control centre facility and f) the fibre optics communications system. The COMPASS software package is in modular form enabling expansion and upgrading. The Automatic Incident Detection algorithm which has a detection rate of 66%, detection time of 2.55 minutes and a false alarm rate of 0.05% is discussed. The advantages of the systems management approach adopted are considered. COMPASS has reduced the duration of incidents and the number of secondary
Samenvatting