Information Technology Reference
In-Depth Information
dense urban areas. Modifications can be implemented (assisted-GPS) and combinations
with other technology (e.g. wireless) can enhance accuracy.
Digital maps for pedestrians.
Recently most smart maps have been aimed at motorists.
There is now great interest in developing pedestrian systems, but the level of detail and
maintenance of up-to-date maps is a major challenge, as for example there are daily
changes to the location of street furniture, while road works, extreme weather
conditions and building activities often disrupt regular routes.
Near-field communications (NFC).
NFC is an innovative technology that enables the
exchange of information simply by two devices being brought adjacent to each other.
In that respect it is similar to Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) and smartcards. A
range of 10 cm initiates communication, with longer-range communication possible via
Bluetooth or WiFi. It operates at the same frequency as contactless smartcards. The real
advantage of NFC is that an existing phone can be used to link to another device; it
therefore does not require extra technical knowledge or the need to purchase an
additional device. Potential applications include ticket downloads, and access (e.g. to
railway stations) by touching the phone onto an NFC-enabled ticket barrier. It could
also be used to obtain audible information through a phone speaker, simply by touching
the mobile adjacent to an NFC-enabled sign.
Sensor networks.
To provide monitoring and support functionality (e.g. monitor
pollutants), a variety of sensors will be deployed, often as part of a wireless network.
This information can then be processed and supplied to policy makers and individuals
to help them make more informed policy or travel decisions based on e.g. health risks.
Sensors are available and in use, but tend to be expensive and deployed in low densities.
Low cost “ubiquitous” sensors should be commonly adopted in three to five years.
Wearable sensors, e.g. accelerometers and pedometers, are also available for
pedestrians. New data processing and storage techniques are required. The size of
sensors is decreasing, and their capabilities are increasing. It is possible that they could
become nano-scale technologies, whilst the range and design of personal wearable
devices will undoubtedly increase.
Additional functionality like Personalised multimodal services or Mobile
communication are described in Section 5.3.3.
3.3.2.
AA-driving (cars/private vehicles)
Personal mobility is a key factor in independent living of older people. This
includes participation in the social life in the community, leisure activities, visits and
also activities where older people take social responsibility. In rural areas where public
transport is not available or is not provided in an acceptable quality, driving with a
private (or rented) car is essential for independent living. Furthermore private means of
transport are often considered as more comfortable and safer and faster than public
transport.
Systems for younger or older drivers are not distinguished here because both
groups will benefit from them. Older drivers often show decreasing motor, sensorial
and mental capabilities, as shown in Figure 4, but they use specific strategies to reduce
the load caused by the driving process, such as avoiding unknown areas or driving at
