Computer control for dial-a-bus system
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A MODIFIED dial-a-bus system in which vehicles are selected by a central computer to answer calls from passengers waiting at stops is now being developed by German aerospace
specialists Messerschm ittBolkow-Blohm.
In the MBB ''Retax" system each bus stop will be equipped with an automatic destination selector. By using push buttons a passenger transmits his requirements to the control centre which, in turn, selects a vehicle from those available which can most quickly fulfil the request for the pick-up.
The operation of vehicles independently of fixed schedules and the siting of stops to provide best possible coverage of the area served should result in shorter waiting times and savings in vehicle use because buses serve stops only when required. The "Retax" system is being supported by the German Ministry of Research and Technology which is sponsoring a cost/benefit study by applying it to the existing situation in an (unnamed) German city.
An example of the prototype installation is expected to feature in the bus control and data equipment section at next month's transport exhibition in Essen. Another exhibitor, Hani-Prolectron, of Switzerland, will display the public transport control and surveillance system which has already been supplied for over 450 vehicles (buses and trams) in Zurich. A HaniProlectron Mark II installation fitted to vehicles on Essen route no. 46 will be demonstrated during the exhibition.