Advanced Transit Controllers
Public Transit Control Devices Are the Future of Automating Transit Buses
Modern transit buses are becoming increasingly automated, whether they are passenger vans or high-capacity articulated buses. Whether it’s the bus doors, trip information systems, passenger counting sensors, or location tracking – automated systems help keep riders flowing smoothly through the system.
However, many hardware options in the market means that multiple devices need to be installed in the bus and integrated, even for basic functions like CAD/AVL. Transit agencies end up relying on system integrators to keep devices working together. As a result, this complexity can result in higher capital and operating costs and poor performance.
A new generation of multi-function public transit control devices can mean less hardware to worry about in each bus while still automating all of the passenger and data collection systems.
The TF4 Controller is a great example of this next-gen hardware. It combines automated CAD/AVL, real-time schedule monitoring, automated visual & audio announcements, automated passenger counting, and traffic signal prioritization functionality into a single, versatile controller.
The Basics of a Multi-Function Transit Controller
A multi-function public transit control device needs to do a few things very well:
- Have sufficient processing power.
- Have transit-specific real-time CAD/AVL functionality built-in.
- Have options for LTE/4G/5G connectivity.
- Have the right integration ports and software.
- Have a modular future-proofed design.
We’ve expanded on each of these design principles in more detail below.
Processing Power
A high-performance CPU is essential, as the technology in buses becomes increasingly complex, such as advanced passenger infotainment displays, advanced automatic deviation detection, high-speed connectivity, and more. Select a device with an advanced CPU with plenty of processing power.
Tracking
GNSS tracking is a cornerstone feature for transit controllers like the TF4 Controller. The TF4 Controller goes one step further with transit-specific functionality to track the current trip, stop, and schedule adherence. By doing so, the TF4 Controller can manage other devices such as destination signs, passenger counters, and traffic signal prioritization devices.
Important technical specifications for reliable GNSS tracking includes supporting the L1 and L5 bands and supporting multiple constellations (GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, Galileo). A nice-to-have feature is dead reckoning abilities to cover areas where there are limited or no GNSS signals.
LTE/4G/5G
Modern transit operations require 4G/LTE and 5G connectivity to allow buses to communicate with cloud platforms (such as TransitFare Cloud). Having radios such as LTE-4G and/or 5G built into the hardware eliminates the need for a separate cellular modem.
Integration Ports & Software
A multi-function controller needs to works as a central hub to automate other devices in the bus such as validating fareboxes, destination signage, passenger counting sensors, traffic signal prioritization antennas, and more. The device should have several connectivity and integration options ranging from Ethernet, RS485, J1708, J1939 and general purpose IOs (GPIOs).
Future-Proofed Modular Design
The architecture of a multi-function controller should be modular. Not every transit agency has the exact same requirements, and requirements can change over time. So a modular design will allow each agency to customize the device as needed upfront, but also over time as needs change. Firmware-over-the-air updates are also key to future-proofing to keep the software up-to-date over a long period of time. The TF4 Controller is an excellent example, featuring a robust modular architecture.
Case for Investment
Investing in a multi-function controller for your fleet yields significant return on investment (ROI). The immediate ROI is the reduction in costs for multiple hardware devices, complex installations, and complex software integrations. The long-term ROI is lower IT support costs, a single device to manage and maintain, and improved data collection, tracking and rider satisfaction.
As passenger demands and regulatory requirements evolve, transit systems must be flexible and technologically advanced. Devices like the TF4 Controller allow for scalability, automated tracking, reliable passenger information, and secure data collection and transfer, positioning agencies for success.
We can Help
At TransitFare, we understand the challenges of modernizing a public transit system. The TF4 Controller is designed to simplify your operations, enhance passenger satisfaction, and optimize fleet performance. With advanced real-time CAD/AVL, automated announcements, multi-function integration, and reliable connectivity options, the TF4 Controller is the one device you need in your transit buses to drive efficiency and deliver an exceptional transit service.
Whether you’re looking to improve real-time vehicle tracking, streamline passenger counting, or automate data collection, we have the tools and expertise to support your transit goals. Let us help you modernize your fleet and stay ahead of industry demands.
Contact us today to learn more about the TF4 Controller, schedule a demo, or discuss how we can tailor our solutions to meet your transit needs. Together, we’ll pave the way for smarter, more connected public transportation.
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