ABSTRACT
This chapter provides an overview of several existing Intelligent Transportation System (ITSs), including a broad overview of the technologies associated with the design of an ITS. These systems are described in more detail in subsequent chapters along with the human factors issues associated with their design and use. To alleviate traffic congestion and to more effectively use existing transportation resources, a major national and international effort is currently made to integrate knowledge on driver behavior and decision making into the design of Advanced Traveler Information systems (ATISs). Mobile satellite services are advantageous because they can transmit and receive information directly to and from an automobile regardless of geographic location. In addition to the description of system benefits, the chapter lays a foundation for further discussion of human factors ATIS issues by providing a description of current ATIS technology, systems in production or under development, and projects underway or completed.
