UC Santa Cruz

We introduce RouteMe2, a cloud-based system that was designed to facilitate use of public transit by those who, due to visual or cognitive impairment, or old age, have difficulties traveling independently. RouteMe2 is comprised of a software infrastructure (including a cloud server, a web application, and a mobile application) and a physical infrastructure for fine-grained localization at bus stops or at train platforms. In addition, RouteMe2 uses beacons placed inside bus vehicles and train cars, which allow for identification of an incoming vehicle. Travelers or other authorized individuals (family members, caregivers) can register a trip using the web application. The traveler may receive specific notifications, such as when he or she reaches a desired bus stop or a specific waiting/boarding area within the stop, or when the desired bus vehicle has arrived. Authorized individuals may also track the traveler’s trip remotely using the web application, and be notified in case of problems (e.g., if the traveler has taken the wrong bus). A pilot implementation of RouteMe2 was completed at the UC Santa Cruz campus, with a demonstration of the most critical functionalities of the system.