On Mon, 28 Jan 2008 16:15:52 -0800 (PST), sweek
wrote:


The driver also has a module in the cab with a display that also shows
in real time whether the bus is early or late. *I noticed this for the
first time on a 192 and was genuinely surprised at how neat the unit
was.

The system can obviously track the service over the whole day and the
collation of operational statistics should help to improve future
timetables. Once it becomes clear how each route performs on a typical
day as well as in unusual conditions then schedules will be able to be
tweaked to make services more reliable and resilient.

All of this sounds very neat. I hope some of this data will become
available to the public, too.

There is a little "cartoon" that explains the basics of the system.

http://www.tfl.gov.uk/corporate/proj...ment/2373.aspx

The direct information may not be published but the route by route
statistics should show if there is a discernable change in performance.

http://www.tfl.gov.uk/tfl/businessan...oroughreports/


Have any of the iBus' advanced countdown timers popped up around
London yet?

I haven't seen any if they going to look different to existing ones nor
have I seen an obvious expansion in the existing style of display unit.
I heard a vague rumour that the bus stop display element was somewhat
delayed but that may be incorrect. I think the new units are supposed
to "talk" as well as provide a visual display and this may be causing
some concern given the apparent complaints about on bus noise. If there
was a stop in a residential area with a frequent service there may be an
endless stream of announcements - 24 hours a day if the service was 24
hours or covered by day and "N" routes.

--
Paul C


Admits to working for London Underground!