Lifewire. AI optimizes driving routes to get people home faster and safer

Artificial intelligence is being used in pretty much every industry to optimize operations. Supply chain design. Customer service. Digital ad buying. Stock trading. The list is endless. 

It’s no wonder then, that school bus route planners are also using it to design safer and faster routes, so our kids can get home in a timely fashion. 

Lifewire covered the latest optimization efforts by Boston Public School to use AI to create more efficient routes for its fleet of 650+ buses. The publication reached out to 555vCTO.com founder and virtual CTO Vaclav Vincalek for his perspectives.

AI and optimal school bus driving routes

In the Lifewire article, it highlights a shortage of bus drivers, with AI-driven software being a solution. MIT researchers, for instance, have written an algorithm aimed at pinpointing the most efficient and cost-effective routes for Boston Public’s fleet. 

“The name of the game is optimization,” Virtual CTO Vaclav Vincalek told Lifewire in an email interview.

“You need a system that can adjust itself in real-time based on traffic conditions, so the traffic lights can improve the flow and favor public transportation, school buses included.”

Various other software applications are enabling school districts to establish more adaptable pickup and dropoff schedules. All of this falls under the broader initiative of harnessing the power of artificial intelligence (AI) to expedite a school kid’s journey on the bus.

The MIT researchers harnessed the power of AI by analyzing data from Google Maps to understand traffic patterns during morning and afternoon rush hours. By employing mapping software and optimization techniques, they designed an algorithm that significantly reduces the number of bus routes, rearranges bus stops, maximizes the number of students on each bus, and minimizes the time buses run empty. Moreover, this algorithm takes into account students with specific needs, such as wheelchair accessibility and home pickups.

The primary focus is on minimizing costs, improving efficiency, and enhancing the overall quality of the school bus system.

AI for safer and smoother traffic flow

AI is not just about optimizing school bus routes; it's also contributing to safer and more efficient traffic flow on a broader scale. The article highlights Germany, where researchers are developing a model that utilizes LiDAR sensors and AI to expedite pedestrian intersections by up to 15 percent. This system ensures pedestrians don't get stuck in the middle of a crosswalk when the light changes, leading to a smoother flow of traffic.

Moreover, companies like Uber and Lyft are already harnessing AI systems to optimize the number of cars on the road and plan more efficient routes. This not only benefits the ride-sharing companies but also has the potential to save lives and improve overall road safety.

AI-directed decisions can significantly reduce travel time, congestion, and the risk of accidents, ultimately leading to a higher quality of life for everyone on the road. AI-based solutions can also enhance vehicle safety through real-time monitoring and driver coaching, which helps reduce accidents.

One alarming statistic is the increase in the fatality rate on our roads, especially involving large trucks. AI-driven technologies can help reduce accidents and fatalities, making our roads safer for everyone.

AI to optimize road maintenance and beyond with predictive analytics

Another area where AI is making an impact is in predictive maintenance. AI systems can monitor a vehicle's condition in real-time and predict when maintenance is needed. Think about how often you've seen the "check engine" light or received alerts for oil changes. AI-based predictive maintenance can extend a vehicle's lifespan and reduce operating costs, making it a win-win for both vehicle owners and the environment.

AI is no longer reserved for tech giants and companies ‘associated’ with tech. AI is proving to be a valuable tool for improving areas of our lives we never previously imagined, such as school bus routes. It's a game-changer in making transportation more efficient and reliable for everyone.

Partner with 555 vCTO tech advisors to optimize routes that ‘drive’ your business forward

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Don't miss out on the chance to stay ahead of the curve and get your company driving on the road to success with the help of AI and 555 vCTO expertise.