USDOT seeks responses to a task order proposal for two of its traffic flow optimization concepts

April 18, 2013 at 6:33 pm

The U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) is seeking responses to a task order proposal for two of its traffic flow optimization concepts

The Task Order Proposal Request (TOPR) is issued under the FHWA IDIQ contracts listed below.  Task Order Proposal must be submitted by 3:00 pm eastern standard time on April 30, 2013. Please direct any questions to the contracting officer, Daniel Confer. He can be reached at Daniel.Confer@dot.gov .

ALL Contractors are eligible to compete on this Task Order Proposal Request but they need to partner with the following firms:

  • DTFH61-12-D-00040 – Battelle Memorial Institute
  • DTFH61-12-D-00041 – Booz Allen Hamilton
  • DTFH61-12-D-00042 – Cambridge Systematics
  • DTFH61-12-D-00043 – Iteris
  • DTFH61-12-D-00044 – Kittelson & Associates
  • DTFH61-12-D-00045 – SAIC

The scope of work of this task order is to: (i) develop a prototype of Dynamic Speed Harmonization with Queue Warning, which are two component applications of the Intelligent Network Flow Optimization (INFLO) bundle, (ii) conduct a small-scale demonstration of the prototype, and (iii) collect “before” (pre-demonstration) and “after” (during demonstration) data from the small-scale demonstration which will be used to support the assessment of the impacts of the prototype as well as a regional deployment of the two applications in an operational system. The USDOT expects the Contractor to apply sound software development and project management principles in conducting this work.

The INFLO bundle is a collection of high-priority, transformative applications that target maximizing roadway throughput, reducing crashes, and reducing fuel consumption through the use of frequently collected and rapidly disseminated multi-source data drawn from wirelessly connected vehicles, travelers’ communication devices, and infrastructure. This Statement of Work specifically addresses the prototyping of Dynamic Speed Harmonization (SPD-HARM) with Queue Warning (Q-WARN), a small-scale demonstration of the prototype, and collection of before and after data. SPD-HARM and Q-WARN are two component applications of the INFLO bundle.

Although the INFLO bundle includes a third application, namely the Cooperative Adaptive Cruise Control (CACC), further research outside of the scope of this task order will be required prior to prototyping the CACC application. The USDOT wishes to advance SPD-HARM and Q-WARN from concept formulation (completed in 2012 during Phase 1 of the DMA Program) to prototype development and small-scale demonstration of the prototype (to be completed in Phase 2 of the DMA Program) to test if the two applications can be successfully prototyped and deployed in the future. The data and findings from the small-scale demonstration will help USDOT make more informed decisions regarding the technical feasibility and potential impacts of deploying the two applications more widely. Similar prototyping and small-scale demonstrations will be conducted for each of the DMA high-priority bundles. In Phase 3, the DMA Program will seek suitably tested and promising application bundles from the six high priority bundles for possible inclusion in a larger scale pilot deployment operational test.

A short description of the two INFLO applications is provided below. For a detailed description, please refer the INFLO Concept of Operations (1 Mahmassani, H., Rakha, H., Hubbard, E., and D. Lukasik. Concept Development and Needs Identification for Intelligent Network Flow Optimization (INFLO): Concept of Operations, Prepared by SAIC for USDOT, June 14, 2012.)

The two applications may be implemented with varying levels of complexities and interrelationships. These levels of complexity and potential interaction may change over time as underlying technologies mature and wireless connectivity between vehicles and the infrastructure becomes increasingly ubiquitous. The USDOT seeks near-term prototype concepts that are likely to yield system and user benefits even at early stages of connected vehicle technology deployment. Further, the concepts prototyped in this task should support an evolutionary path wherein the impacts associated with these applications grow as the number of connected vehicles increases.

Dynamic Speed Harmonization (SPD-HARM): The INFLO SPD-HARM application concept aims to maximize throughput and reduce crashes by utilizing infrastructure-to vehicle (I2V) and vehicle-to-vehicle (V2V) communication to detect impending congestion that might necessitate speed harmonization; generating appropriate target speed recommendation strategies for upstream traffic; and communicating the recommendations to the affected vehicles using either I2V or V2V communication.

The SPD-HARM concept reflects an operational environment in which speed recommendation decisions are made at a Traffic Management Center (TMC) or a similar infrastructure-based entity, and then communicated to the affected traffic. In such an environment, the SPD-HARM application resides within the infrastructure-based entity and is external to the vehicle. Such an approach was taken since an adhoc V2V communication is not well suited to providing a comprehensive view of the roadway traffic conditions, which is fundamental to effective speed harmonization. Communication of target speed recommendations to the affected vehicles will always give priority to crash avoidance/mitigation safety applications when such applications determine that a safety alert is necessary.

Queue Warning (Q-WARN): The INFLO Q-WARN application concept aims to minimize or prevent impacts of rear-end or secondary collisions by utilizing I2V and V2V communication to detect existing queues and/or predict impending queues; and communicate advisory queue warning messages to drivers in advance of roadway segments with existing or developing vehicle queues. The Q-WARN concept reflects an operational environment in which two essential tasks are performed: queue determination (detection and/or prediction) and queue information dissemination. In such an environment, the Q-WARN application may reside in the vehicle or within an infrastructure-based entity, or utilize a combination of both. The queue warning messages may either be communicated by the infrastructure-based entity using I2V communication or broadcast by vehicles that are in a queued state to nearby vehicles and infrastructure based entities. It is important to note that the Q-WARN application concept is not intended to operate as a crash avoidance system (e.g., like the forward collision warning safety application). In contrast to such systems, Q-WARN will engage well in advance of any potential crash situation, providing messages and information to the driver in order to minimize the likelihood of a crash avoidance or mitigation actions later. As such, Q-WARN-related driver communication will always give priority to crash avoidance/mitigation safety applications when such applications determine that a safety-related alert is necessary.

 

 

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ITS America 2013 Student Essay Competition

January 30, 2013 at 5:24 pm

ITS America Annual Meeting 2013Sponsored by ITS America and the Southwest Research institute, the Student Essay Competition is designed each year to encourage student interest and future participation in the development of Intelligent Transportation Systems and solutions. The objective of the essay competition is to provide an opportunity for today’s transportation and engineering students to apply their knowledge in a thought-provoking and enjoyable competition and to build awareness of ITS as a career path with unlimited potential.

Students are asked to submit a 2,000-word essay on any one of the following topics:

  • “Next Generation Cooperative Systems, how will they evolve?,” “How is ITS evolving?,” and
  • “What are the technological barriers to near term realization of fully autonomous systems on U.S. highways?”

The first, second and third place winners will receive $1,500, $1,000 or $500 respectively. Additional recognition includes:

  • The 1st place winner will be invited to attend the Awards ceremony at the ITS America Annual Meeting on Tuesday, April 23rd and be assisted financially to cover trip expenses.
  • Receive a complimentary full registration to attend the conference.
  • Have the opportunity to present their winning essay at the dedicated Interactive Session area in the exhibit hall.
  • Have their winning essays displayed on the Student Essay Competition Web page of ITS America’s website.
  • All three winners will be featured in nationally-distributed press releases.

Click here for the official for guidelines and application information.

A blonde in heels walks into a library… and makes the best pitch for a fuel cell car.

December 9, 2012 at 10:09 pm

Yep…  One of the best ads in automotive business, EVER. This one comes from Germany’s Clean Energy Partnership, a network of companies pulling together to introduce hydrogen as a fuel. To find out more about us, visit the CEP website. Or check their facebook page for discussions, exciting news and information about CEP’s efforts.

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A Lot Of Research Happens Before Integrating Infotainment Systems Into A Car Without Compromising Driver Safety

December 3, 2012 at 4:26 pm

via CNET

Ever wondered what happens to a driver behind the wheel of a vehicle traveling at 60mph on a highway when he/she is bombarded with information pouring out from the electronics suite on his/her dashboard?  We all know how distracted driving  can lead to crashes that can kill or main road users and the vehicle occupants.  Today’s driver is constantly enveloped in data about not just the car’s operational elements but also from the infotainment systems that aim to bring to you the latest and greatest information via social media tools such as Twitter, facebook, etc. many argue that these internet-connected drivers (and cars) are often a detriment to driver safety but the truth is far from it.  Auto companies want to make sure that they are not just providing a better driving experience for the driver but also a safer trip while in their vehicles.  Here is an interesting walk and talk through the bowels of Ford’s advanced research facilities with Ford’s CTO Paul Mascarenas that shows what Ford is doing to mitigate the dangers of distracted driving.

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Communications Director – Intelligent Transportation Society of America @ Washington, DC

October 17, 2012 at 4:21 pm

ITS America is looking for a dynamic leader to be our new Communications Director and we wanted to reach out and see if you know of any qualified candidates who may be interested in applying.  Among other responsibilities, the Communications Director manages ITS America’s outreach to mainstream and trade media; serves as media spokesperson and functions as communications liaison to ITS America’s staff, state chapters and 400+ member companies and organizations; researches, writes and edits articles, press releases, online content and other promotional materials; and assists with the planning and promotion of meetings and events for the transportation industry, news media, policymakers and other key audiences.  Candidates should have at least 4-5 years of relevant experience, plus exceptional writing skills and attention to detail.  The position description is online at http://www.itsa.org/aboutus/itsamericapositionopenings, and candidates can submit their resume and writing samples to pfeenstra@itsa.org.

Job Alert: Virginia DOT (VDOT) Division Administrator for Operations and Security

July 25, 2012 at 4:45 pm

The Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) has an exceptional opportunity for a proven professional as the Division Administrator for Operations and Security. This position offers the challenges and rewards of building, directing and overseeing the statewide operations and Security Division within VDOT. VDOT - Virginia Department of Transportation

The selected individual will manage policy, process, program direction and support to regions and other VDOT Divisions such as Statewide Incident Management, Regional Smart Traffic Operations, Emergency Operations, Operations Management Systems, Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS) and real-time Traveler Information & Services. You will evaluate division functional program areas and staffing needs, recommend and implement desired changes. Provide strategic leadership and oversight to the activities of the Operations and Security Division and ensure alignment with overall agency goals and performance measures. Responsible for overall leadership in the program areas of Intelligent Transportation Systems, operability of Smart Traffic Centers, and various file operations and services in conjunction with the regions and critical infrastructure and Homeland Security implementation and data integration for traveler information, Incident Management, and Safety Service Patrol.

For complete details to apply, click on this link .

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Job Alert: Program Director, Intelligent Transportation Systems Joint Program Office @ USDOT – Washington, DC

July 24, 2012 at 3:33 pm

JOB SUMMARY:

Come on board with us and take a journey that will challenge your mind and develop your career. The quality of our lives, the shape of our communities and the productivity of our Nation’s economy depend on our transportation systems. We recognize and value the importance of our workforce and the diversity of backgrounds and ideas that each employee brings.

The Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS) Program uses advanced computer systems and telecommunication technologies to improve the efficiency and safety of our Nation’s surface transportation system. The Department of Transportation (DOT) established the ITS Joint Program Office in 1994 to serve as DOT’s primary advocate and national leader for the ITS Research Program. It coordinates program components with the other DOT organizational elements (the Federal Highway Administration, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, the Federal Transit Administration, and the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration) to ensure that the Nation’s traveling public and the economy benefit from technology advancements that increase mobility and safety, i.e., faster, safer, and more reliable transportation.

Application deadline: August 22, 2012

KEY REQUIREMENTS:

  • You must be a U.S. citizen
  • Submit application and resume online by 11:59 PM EST on the closing date
  • Provide all required documents by closing date

DUTIES:

The Program Director will influence the future of the nation’s ITS program. The selectee uses expert knowledge and experience with the application of advanced computer information and/or telecommunications technologies to the delivery of surface transportation to establish the strategic direction for the ITS program; advises the Research and Innovative Technologies (RITA) Administrator and the ITS Management Council on ITS policy, program strategy, and budget allocation; and represents the Department’s ITS program interests. As an advocate for the Joint Program Office’s Department-wide role in administering the ITS program, the selectee maintains contact and coordinates with the technology industry, automobile industry, and transportation interests, both public and private, and exhibits independent innovation in leading the ITS program. The Program Director oversees Federal ITS research and development, operational tests, and deployment projects and activities being conducted by DOT modal administrations and directs the development and maintenance of the National ITS Architecture and standards.

Click here to learn more and to apply

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Gizmo Gone Wild – Funny Video of Advanced Mobile Ketchup Delivery Platforms

January 10, 2011 at 7:29 pm

(Source: Reddit.com)

Editor’s note: I haven’t laughed so hard in a long time. Oh, and I’m not the only one who had tears streaming down my face watching this one.  You can see plenty of folks who enjoyed this Gizmo Gone Wild video from their comments on Reddit and also on the source (YouTube) comments page.

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Padding The Belt for Added Protection – Lexus LFA to feature new ‘Airbelt,’ a seat belt airbag

December 6, 2010 at 8:57 pm

(Source: cnet)

Looks like Toyota is at it again, upping the ante for other players in the automobile market to match the stellar reputation it has built over the years as an advanced engineering shop that leaves no stone unturned to enhance the safety of the riders in the Lexus vehicles.  This above featured new, inflatable Takata “Airbelt,” or SRS Seat Belt Airbag, is built into the webbing of the seat belt of the Lexus LFA, the latest out of Toyota’s Lexus stable, expected to hit the market soon. It’s designed to protect drivers and front-seat passengers in front- or side-impact collisions. So, how does it work? Well, it works as shown nicely in the above graphic and here is some additional text from Cnet.com to aid in your understanding:

“The belt expands directly to spread the shock-load over a wider area of the occupant’s chest during front impact. And in a side impact, the belt inflates between the shoulder and head to reduce lateral head movement and provide protection from impact with the side window or colliding object, the company said in a press release.”

Click here to read more.

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Job Alert: Director of the Bureau of Transportation Statistics (BTS) – USDOT @ Washington, DC

September 8, 2010 at 2:30 pm

The U.S. Department of Transportation will soon be seeking a Director of the Bureau of Transportation Statistics (BTS).  BTS, which is part of DOT’s Research and Innovative Technology Administration (RITA), is charged with advancing rigorous analysis and the deployment of cross-cutting technologies to improve our Nation’s transportation system.

The Director position would lead the BTS, which is responsible for leading the development of high quality transportation data and information.  As a federal statistical agency, BTS provides an objective source of statistical analysis for decision making at all levels.

RITA is looking for a dynamic and visionary leader who can apply their expertise in the collection, analysis, and use of transportation statistics towards positioning BTS as an integral part of a Department of Transportation that bases its very significant investment and policy decisions on sound science and rigorous analysis.

In addition to possessing superior technical acumen, candidates must demonstrate an ability to lead a diverse team and promote cross-office collaboration in the pursuit of achieving organizational excellence.

RITA will soon be posting this position (on USAJobs).  If you know someone interested in this Washington, D.C. based leadership role with relevant experience and proven results please encourage them to contact Linda Riggins, Human Resources, at (202) 366-4847 or Linda.Riggins@dot.gov.

Note:  Received this from a USDOT source; please stay tuned for the official announcement on USAJobs.

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