Integration of Map Use and Context-Awareness with Public Transport Data

Abstract

This thesis examines the integration of maps to distribute public transport information. The topic is based on map usage for journey planning, route path visualization and real-time information retrieval. Additionally, the topic for map usage aboard public transport modes is examined, for distribution of journey information in real-time.Information distribution within public transport systems has its basis in location-based services, which is an emerging field founded on the combination of information with spatial locations and context-awareness. The common way to distribute real-time information is by information screens at stops, in a textual format. In recent times, several mobile applications has been developed, distributing the same at-stop information. The emerge of easy access to real-time information has proven to be of high interest of users. People are able to better time their arrival at stops, plan their journeys and they are generally more positive towards the use of public transportation. In order to examine the topics in this thesis two prototypes was developed, covering the bus system in the city of Trondheim, Norway. The first prototype was developed for the mobile environment for multifunctional information distribution. The other prototype was developed as a web-service for use on public transport modes. In general, this thesis will show how a higher use of maps for information distribution can be implemented within the field of public transportation.