A team of researchers from the University of Dhaka, Bangladesh, has developed a smart bus transport management system aimed at improving the efficiency, safety, and sustainability of public bus services in developing countries. The researchers, Md. Sadman Haque, Zobaer Ibn Razzaque, Robiul Awoul Robin, Fahim Hafiz, and Riasat Azim, have proposed a comprehensive solution that leverages deep learning, Internet of Things (IoT), and solar power to address common challenges in public bus transport systems.
The researchers’ work, published in the IEEE Xplore Digital Library, focuses on several key areas to enhance bus transport systems. One of the primary challenges they address is the lack of real-time location updates for both users and bus operators. To tackle this, they have developed a real-time bus tracking system that keeps passengers informed about the location of their bus. This system is complemented by IoT-based solar-powered smart bus stops that display real-time passenger counts, helping to manage crowding and improve the overall commuting experience.
Another significant safety concern addressed by the researchers is the issue of blind spots, which can lead to accidents. They have implemented a deep learning-based blind-spot warning system that alerts drivers to potential hazards, thereby reducing the risk of collisions. Additionally, the system includes automated bus-stop detection to ensure that buses stop precisely at designated stops, improving transit efficiency and reducing traffic congestion caused by improper stopping.
To further enhance safety and organization, the researchers have introduced an RFID-based card system that tracks where passengers board and exit the bus. This system, combined with a smart door system, ensures safer and more organized boarding processes. All these features are connected through an HTTP-based server, facilitating seamless communication between the various components of the system.
The proposed system has demonstrated impressive results, with approximately 99% efficiency in real-time blind-spot detection and precise stopping at bus stops. The IoT-based solar-powered bus stops have also shown significant energy savings, promoting sustainable architecture. The researchers have made the full implementation and source code of their system available on GitHub, encouraging further development and adoption of their technology.
In the context of the energy industry, this smart bus transport management system offers several practical applications. The integration of solar-powered bus stops not only reduces energy consumption but also promotes the use of renewable energy sources. The real-time tracking and efficient management of bus services can lead to optimized fuel consumption and reduced emissions, contributing to a more sustainable and environmentally friendly public transport system. Additionally, the implementation of such smart systems can encourage the adoption of similar technologies in other areas of the energy sector, fostering innovation and efficiency.
This article is based on research available at arXiv.