NextBus
NextBus is a vehicle tracking system which uses global positioning satellite information to predict when the next bus will arrive at any given bus stop, thereby eliminating wait times and any need for schedules for all transit riders. This system was developed by NextBus, Inc. for buses, trams, light rail operations and other public transport vehicles. NextBus was acquired by the Cubic Corporation in January 2013.[1]
Overview
![](http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/b/ba/Chapel_Hill_Transit_Bus_Stop.jpg/220px-Chapel_Hill_Transit_Bus_Stop.jpg)
Each vehicle is fitted with a Global Positioning System (GPS) receiver, which transmits speed and location data to a central location where a computer running proprietary software calculates the projected arrival times for all stops in the system using this data along with configuration information and historic travel times. These times are then converted to a 'wait time' and made available via the NextBus website and electronic signs at bus stops and tram stops as well as cell phones, and other wireless devices via the Internet.
Usage
NextBus provides a real-time passenger information system for all routes for several major transportation agencies including San Francisco Municipal Railway, AC Transit (which services the East Bay region of the San Francisco area), Washington DC WMATA, Los Angeles Metro, Boston MBTA, and the Toronto Transit Commission (TTC). The system is also available in many other smaller Universities and public transportation agencies for a total of approximately 100 systems. [2]
References
- ^ Gannes, Liz (27 Jan 2013). "NextBus Acquired by Cubic for $20.6M". All Things D. Retrieved 10 Oct 2013.
- ^ A list of transit agencies supported by NextBus is available at http://www.nextbus.com/predictor/agencySelector.jsp.
Further reading
- San Francisco misses the NextBus - Computerworld
- Get There - NextBus System Well Worth a Try
- Post Now - NextBus predictions - not so accurate
- Get There - Metro Transit: NextBus Launches Today