Traffic Operations Centre (TOC)
For large-scale freeway traffic management systems like COMPASS, the traffic operations centre is the focal point for all communications and control. It receives information on traffic conditions, analyzes and evaluates it, and make decisions as to what controls should be used. The traffic operations centre usually consists of the central computer system and its related peripheral accessories, communications equipment, CCTV monitors and camera control equipment, colour display components, and radio equipment for dispatching emergency agencies and maintenance vehicles to the problem locations.
The COMPASS Traffic Operations Centre for Highway 401 is located within the Downsview complex of the
Ontario Ministry of Transportation at Keele Street and Highway 401. The centre is in operation 24 hours a day, 7 days a week and it is responsible for all Ministry freeway management activities within the Greater Toronto Area.
The operator workstation of COMPASS is equipped with several pieces of equipment. The function of each is discussed as follows:
- Computer Terminal - Each workstation has two computer terminals to access the COMPASS System software. Typically, one terminal is used to notify the user of any system-detected events. The other terminal is used to access all other
functional controls of COMPASS equipment.
-
Graphics Terminal - A colour graphics terminal allows the user to have an overview of traffic
data relating to the entire freeway within system limit. Real-time traffic information such as traffic volumes, occupancy and vehicle speeds detected at various sections of the freeway can be displayed in a graphical format. In addition, current content
on changeable message signs can also be shown instantaneously on the colour graphics terminal.
- Monitor Banks - CCTV monitors are usually stacked together in a monitor bank and placed in the control centre directly in front of the operator workstations. The succession of monitors shows all available views of the freeway through the
CCTV cameras.
- Workstation Monitors - Two small monitors are located at the operator workstation. The operator can display and control any two of the available CCTV cameras on these monitors for close monitoring of incidents or special events.
CCTV Remote Control/Video Monitor Switch Keypad - The keypad is used to select the desired
camera displays for the workstation monitors and to manoeuvre and control the cameras.
- Video Cassette Recorder - A VCR is provided to allow the user to videotape any camera display especially during incident occurrence.
- Wall Map - A complete wall map illustrating the configurations of the freeway within the system limit. The wall map indicates the locations of all system components such as CMS, VDS, and CCTV.
See also:
- Traffic Operations Centre (TOC)
- Central Computer System
- Closed Circuit Television (CCTV)
- Vehicle Detector Stations (VDS)
- Changeable Message Signs (CMS)
- Ramp Metering Stations (RMS)
- Field Provisions (ducts, cabinets, footings, power, etc.)
- Communications Subsystems:
