GPS system helps drivers avoid flyovers

Researchers have created an angle difference method to improve road safety and navigation while driving.

While paper maps were once the only source of directions for drivers, most now opt for satellite navigation instead. However, GPS devices do not recognise many places. A research team from the University of Hong Kong have created a solution to help with the black holes of GPS’ reach. It helps identify whether a vehicle has entered a flyover or is still on ground level, a problem that many people struggle with when driving.

The team has developed an angle difference method. This method compares the inclination angle of a vehicle and angles of different road levels. Information is stored in a transport geographic information system, or GIS. The solution uses an ordinary smartphone. This can be put anywhere within the vehicle, at any angle either plugged in or installed on-board diagnostic (OBD) device. The team believe the system is a simple and affordable solution to instantly warn drivers when they have driven at the wrong road level. The researchers even claim that the method provides 100 percent accuracy. This could reduce the stress and uncertainty in driving in a complex multilevel road system, making driving safer and smarter.

Furthermore, the system’s creators are in discussions with global GIS and vehicle navigation operators including major operators in China. They hope to apply the system to enable a major advancement in the current navigation system for vehicles. The angle difference method would be particularly useful in large cities with complicated flyover networks.

A huge amount of new technology has come to the market in recent years to help drivers stay safe. A phone case that reminds users it is dangerous to text while driving uses machine learning software. Elsewhere, a robotic steering wheel could help the wellbeing of gig drivers by simplifying moving the wheel. How could technology help with other aspects of driving?