In-vehicle Traveler Information Messages

In our previous article, we introduced Traveler Information Messages (TIMs) and their importance in ensuring road safety. Here, we’ll dive deeper into the in-vehicle delivery of TIMs and their potential to improve driving conditions.

Imagine driving on a seemingly safe, well-maintained road in a remote winter area. Despite clear skies and adherence to speed limits, you unexpectedly encounter a hidden patch of black ice, causing you to lose control of your vehicle. Similarly, you might not notice a stalled vehicle ahead while driving through fog until it's too late to slow down and avoid a collision. These situations are not limited to weather conditions; they can also involve unexpected traffic queues or lane closures due to various events.

In these cases, the key to avoiding an accident is having advance warning. Drivers need to be aware of hazards before so that they can react appropriately—whether by reducing speed or taking evasive action. While Dynamic Message Signs (DMS) can provide some of this information, they have limited availability and are not capable of delivering geofenced or customized messages. This is where in-vehicle TIMs prove invaluable, delivering customized information tailored to the vehicle's precise location and direction.

How to Provide In-Vehicle TIMs

While being able to alert drivers in a vehicle can be extremely valuable, it comes with some risks if the information is not accurate. Since drivers in vehicles are slow to trust and quick to dismiss messages if they are deemed inaccurate, it is essential that DOTs only push reliable TIMs. For in-vehicle TIMs to be accurate, reliable, and timely, several critical components must be in place, including dependable input data and an efficient message creation and delivery system.

Input Data for TIMs

The reliability of TIMs depends on the accuracy and trustworthiness of the input data. Most TIMs are generated using data from agencies’ Advanced Transportation Management Systems (ATMS), where information has already been vetted and confirmed as reliable. While some processes can be automated, many still involve human oversight to ensure data accuracy.

In addition to ATMS data, other potential sources include third-party data, crowdsourced information, Connected Vehicle (CV) data from Basic Safety Messages (BSMs), or data from Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs). While many of these data sources can be reliable, cross-verifying information from multiple independent sources is recommended. Even with multiple data inputs, agencies should review and approve the information before generating TIMs and delivering them to drivers.

TIM Creation Process

The process of creating TIMs can be either manual or automated. Manual TIM creation involves direct input from Traffic Management Center staff, which can be time-consuming and add to their workload, potentially leading to errors or delays in message distribution.

Automated systems can efficiently analyze available data, generate TIMs, and distribute them to the CV network or third parties for in-vehicle delivery. For instance, CORVUS is a tool capable of automating TIM creation and distribution. Regardless of whether message creation is manual or automated, adhering to established standards is crucial to ensure nationwide TIM interoperability.

In-Vehicle TIM Delivery

Several technologies can be used to deliver TIMs directly to vehicles. Connected Vehicle (CV) technology requires significant infrastructure, including Roadside Units (RSUs) and Onboard Units (OBUs) installed in vehicles. CV technology enables not only TIMs but also other important safety messages. As agencies continue to invest in CV infrastructure, this method of communication is expected to become more widespread in the coming years.

Other delivery methods include third-party services such as navigation apps, radios, or infotainment systems, which are already in place and can communicate TIMs via satellite or cellular networks. Third-party technologies are especially useful in remote or rural areas, where cellular or satellite communications can transmit essential messages like TIMs more easily. To facilitate this, agencies must establish a data exchange platform to manage communication with third parties. One such platform is the Situation Data Exchange (SDX), which allows agencies to send TIMs to third parties for in-vehicle broadcasts.

Register for our Webinar

While the implementation process may seem complex, the safety benefits of in-vehicle TIMs far outweigh the challenges. To learn more, stay tuned for the next article, where we will discuss the standards that must be followed. Additionally, we will be hosting a webinar on November 20, 2024, to discuss the common challenges faced by transportation agencies in creating and deploying effective TIMs and examine Trihydro's innovative platforms, CORVUS and SDX. Click to learn more and to register.

In the meantime, connect with our Technology Services & Solutions Team to learn more about how CV technology, like the CORVUS and SDX, can help your agency manage TIMs and data exchange.