The markets for train detection, interlocking, communications, security and control systems aim to optimize the efficiency of the existing rail network. The rise of the intelligent transport system (ITS) technologies has come about primarily through the desire for seamless rail networking, increasing security and improving the communication processes involved. The ERTMS standards led to the emergence of the European train control systems (ETCS) as the new control and command systems and the global system for mobile communications in rail (GSM-R) as the new radio system for data communications throughout Europe.

In aviation technologies, sense-perception and the incorporation of Global Positioning Systems are two emerging areas of ITS that have the greatest impact on the system market. Northrop Grumman has utilized a sensing architecture for UAV that it calls “see-and-avoid”, allowing aircraft to fuse data collected from its sensors to construct a detailed view of the outside terrain. The Navy has utilized GPS in its Target Acquisition Weapons Software (TAWS), combining it with radar and sonar capabilities to construct a 3-D view of another aircraft’s position. Honeywell is addressing the communication shortfalls of the commercial TACS with a design for the TACS II that also utilizes GPS for improved safety.

New investment in this kind of technology provides a unique business opportunity not only within the growing military sector but also in fueling new growth in a commercial sector that remains stifled by FAA bureaucracy. This market, along with efforts in rail network efficiency, are two areas where intelligent transport systems show immense promise in the area of applied cognitive computing. ACG remains committed to further development in these and other ITS ventures.

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