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Chapter 5

Chapter 5. Computers in the Transportation Industry. Inventory Control Systems. Vehicle manufacturers rely on inventory control systems to track supplies and ensure adequate supplies A customized database management system tracks parts, location, cost, etc.

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Chapter 5

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  1. Chapter 5 Computers in the Transportation Industry

  2. Inventory Control Systems • Vehicle manufacturers rely on inventory control systems to track supplies and ensure adequate supplies • A customized database management system tracks parts, location, cost, etc. • Also stores information on collections of parts, called kits, that are needed to complete a specific job • Kits have their own codes and price; their individual components can be tracked separately

  3. Engine Control Unit (ECU) • Is the most powerful computer in most cars • Controls the engine by monitoring the outputs of the car and adjusting the inputs to the car accordingly • Communicates with vehicle modules through a communications bus • Sends packets to instrument panel with updated data from various modules • Stores errors that are sent to it from modules for later diagnosis

  4. Antilock Braking System (ABS) An ABS system relies on a microprocessor called an ABS controller Watches speed sensors and sends messages to the brake valves to open and close rapidly in order to prevent skidding Speed sensor Pump valve

  5. Smart Tires • A SmarTire pressure-monitoring system uses a wireless radio transmitter mounted to the tire rim • Sensors transmit tire pressure and temperature to a receiver inside the car, which outputs messages on a module

  6. “Smart Car” Features Include • Voice-activated controls with speech recognition technology • Adaptive cruise control (ACC) using radar to maintain safe driving distances • Cameras and microphones to help guide the car • Headlights with sensors on the steering wheel and back axle to see around corners • Wireless communications to pass information between cars

  7. Global Positioning System (GPS) • A GPS device monitors and displays your car’s current location in relation to a map • If you are lost, the GPS will recalculate your route

  8. Telematics Telematicscombines computers, GPS, and a cellular phone to connect with a live operator • Locates your car using GPS • Reads system data from the ECU • Provides roadside assistance, sometimes remotely (ex., unlock car) • Current systems include OnStar (GM) and TeleAid (Mercedes Benz) • Incurs a monthly fee for the service

  9. Electronic Toll Collection • An electronic toll-collection system uses a vehicle-mounted transponder that stores account information Antennas above each toll lane emit radio frequencies that communicate with the transponder • Light curtains and treadles (sensor strips) detect cars entering the lane, as well as the number of axles on the vehicle • Each lane use a lane controller that runs the equipment and tracks vehicles All lane controllers at a toll plaza are connected on a LAN, in turn connected by WAN to a central database, which stores customer information

  10. Airlines • Airplanes are designed and tested with computers • CAD and CAE software • Wind tunnel simulations • Airplanes rely on computers for system control (fly-by-wire), communications, and in-flight entertainment • Airport services are automated by computers, including flight and gate information and customer services • Pilots are sometimes equipped with laptops with airplane manuals and software for preflight calculations

  11. Air Traffic Control • Air traffic controllers use computers to track flight patterns, ensure safe distances, and help with rerouting • The Air Traffic Control System Command Center (ATSCC) oversees all air traffic control in the U.S. • An electronic flight progress strip is generated by the tower & passed from controller to controller during the flight • The FAA is constantly working to update flight technology for air traffic controllers and pilots, such as collision avoidance systems

  12. Reservations and Check-in • A global distribution system (GDS) is an electronic system that stores data about available flights and seats (ex., Sabre) • GDS systems are massive client-server systems that can be accessed from hundreds of terminals across networks • Web sites rely on GDS systems to allow customers to design and book entire trips online • Customers can check-in electronically for a flight at a computerized kiosk at the airport, or over the Web at the airline’s Web site (i.e., print a boarding pass)

  13. Tools for Pilots • Computer programs are widely used to aid in preflight calculations, including complex fuel load calculations • Flight simulators are used to train airline pilots • Live training without associated risks & costs • Can dynamically replicate an instrument failure, turbulence, or commands from air traffic control • Aircraft accident forensics

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