As urban areas continue to grow and populations increase, cities face numerous challenges related to transportation. Severe congestion, frequent delays, and inefficient routing have become common issues in urban areas around the world. To tackle these issues, cities are increasingly adopting Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS), which utilize advanced communication and information technologies to optimize transportation networks. ITS is designed to improve traffic management, enhance vehicle safety, and increase overall efficiency, ultimately contributing to a higher quality of life for urban dwellers. Figure 1 illustrates the ITS applications in smart cities for enhanced mobility and efficiency.
Central to this ITS are the communication components that connect vehicles, infrastructure, and traffic management systems. One of the key elements in this framework is the Side Unit (RSU), which plays a central
role in enabling communication between vehicles and infrastructure. These RSUs are strategically placed along
roadways and communicate with nearby vehicles to exchange real-time traffic data.
The Intelligent Traffic Controller (ITC) is another crucial element in the ITS framework, responsible for managing traffic signals and controlling the flow of vehicles at intersections. These controllers are equipped with sensors and communication technology that allow them to adjust signal timings based on real-time traffic conditions. For example, if a traffic signal detects a high volume of vehicles at one intersection, it can extend the green light to allow for a smoother flow of traffic. On the other hand, if the intersection is clear, the signal can shorten the green light to allow vehicles to move through more quickly.
Figure: ITS applications in smart cities for enhanced mobility and efficiency
In addition to the traffic controllers, the system also relies on data storage and processing capabilities to analyze
and predict traffic conditions. This data processing and prediction system uses advanced algorithms and machine learning techniques to analyze large amounts of traffic data in real-time. By identifying patterns and trends in traffic behavior, the system can predict where congestion is likely to occur and take proactive measures to prevent delays.
Smart parking is another critical application of ITS in smart cities. As urban populations grow, finding parking
spaces in densely populated areas can become a significant challenge. ITS systems can alleviate this issue by providing real-time data on available parking spaces, allowing drivers to easily locate and reserve spots. The smart parking system works by collecting data from sensors embedded in parking spaces, which detect when a space is occupied or available.
One of the most innovative aspects of ITS is the integration of Vehicle-to-Vehicle (V2V) and Vehicle-to–
Infrastructure (V2I) communication. These communication systems allow vehicles and infrastructure to exchange data in real-time, improving the efficiency and safety of transportation networks. V2V communication enables vehicles to share information about their speed, location, and direction with other nearby vehicles, helping drivers make informed decisions and avoid potential accidents.
Similarly, V2I communication allows vehicles to interact with traffic signals, road sensors, and other infrastructure components to optimize traffic flow. For example, when a vehicle approaches an intersection, the system can adjust the traffic signal based on the vehicle’s speed and location, ensuring that the vehicle encounters a green light. Additionally, V2I communication can help manage traffic during special events or emergencies by providing real-time updates to vehicles about road closures or accidents. This dynamic interaction between vehicles and infrastructure helps create a more adaptive and responsive transportation network, reducing delays and improving overall traffic efficiency.
Smart vehicle number plate detection and speed monitoring are integral components of ITS, using advanced
cameras and sensors to track vehicle behavior. Number plate detection identifies vehicles violating traffic rules, such as speeding or running red lights, and alerts authorities. Similarly, speed monitoring systems track real-time vehicle speeds, automatically triggering fines or warnings for violations.
In conclusion, ITS technologies work together to create a connected, responsive, and efficient urban mobility
network, shaping the future of transportation to make cities more livable and sustainable.
