Author: Ragin KT
An ElectronicToll Collection (ETC) system is a comprehensive integration of multiple technologies including RFID, sensors, cameras, positioning, license reading, digital payments, etc. These advancements were implemented in the ETC system, allowing vehicles to pass through toll booths without stopping, enabling seamless toll payment while reducing congestion and improving traffic flow. It automates toll collection, making it more efficient for both toll operators and drivers while saving the labor cost compared to traditional methods.
With the advantages mentioned above, today I want to dive deep into the GNSS-enabled solution for accurate vehicle metering.
How does the ETC system work? What are its benefits?
The working principle of the ETC system is based on a set of sophisticated equipment and sensors. The toll booth has a control system and sensors to release the vehicle, the camera reads the license plate, and the payment system completes the toll collection. The vehicle is equipped with a tracker that integrates acellular module and a GNSS module for connection and positioning, transmitting the vehicle's position in real-time. This allows the system to accurately monitor the vehicle's entry and exit points on the toll road.
The automated toll collection method brings many benefits:
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Reduced congestion: ETC allows vehicles to pass through without stopping, improving traffic flow and efficiency.
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Reduced costs: minimize the labor cost for manual operation.
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Improved efficiency: the system identifies the vehicle data such as license plate, mileage, and payment account automatically and accurately, then reports the data to the transportation center for better traffic planning and road management.
Accurate positioning and 4G communication enabled by Fibocom
The traditional toll system charges vehicles based on fixed toll points such as plazas or gantries and the classification of vehicle types, differed by cars, trucks, buses, etc. Nowadays, with more and more accurate satellite positioning around the globe, vehicles equipped with GNSS modules that can enable the toll collection system to detect the entry and exit points of the vehicle on the highway, all these communication data transferred through the cellular 4G/5G to the toll system. In this circumstance, the toll system will be able to calculate the bill amount and charge the driver in real time without stopping at the exit point.
At Fibocom, we provide a one-stop solution for the vehicle's positioning with the integration of the Cat 1bis module and GNSS module. By implementing the Cat 1bis module and industrial-grade GNSS module in the vehicle, navigating the L1&L5 bands of multiple satellite systems such as IRNSS/GPS/BeiDou/GLONASS/Galileo/QZSS to achieve meter-level positioning, and transmitting the real-time data utilizing the seamless 4G connectivity.
It is worth highlighting that, based on the Cat 1bis module, Fibocom provides an easy integration with the GNSS module through a serial port, supporting the real-time data transmission to the toll collection system, helping the toll center to analyze the road status and manage the traffic flow. In addition, the toll center can set up geo-fencing, tracking, and alerts in case the vehicle fails to pay the bill. The solution supports Open for further development of 3rd party APP and protocol integration.
With the continuous advancement of technology, the GNSS-enabled toll collection system is becoming the mainstream of traffic management on the highway. It not only improves the efficiency of road use but also provides drivers with a more convenient and safer travel experience.
