Open Hardware

Challenge

Majority of Rural Transit services do not follow a fixed route, but rather operate “Demand Response” services
Most operators “tried and true” CB radios and phone operators,
Proprietary fleet management software designed for utility or construction company fleets
Can be very expensive while producing little benefit.
Geolocation capability is very rare and very expensive when used.
Data Transmission via cellular networks often lacks reception in rural areas

Opportunity

Open Source Vehicle Tracker
Mesh Networks for Rural Transit
Open Source Transit Info Display

Overview

In recent years, successful methods using open source in the software community have begun to be embraced by hardware makers. Open Source Hardware follows the same model of networked user collaboration so pervasive in software development, but focuses on physical product development rather than source code. A major force in this growing phenomenon has the widespread adoption of an open-source microcontroller called Arduino. With its customizable, modular nature, and an overall affordability, the microcontroller revolution potentially provides a solution to the very specific nature of rural transportation needs. A microcontroller-based infrastructure would be capable of adapting to each regions specific needs. Location transmission (hardware which would normally cost in the millions of dollars) can be accomplished with a Cellular Network Location Transmitter Shield. In areas lacking cellular reception a “mesh network” using low frequency “XBee” radios could replace the Cellular module. An “RFID” shield adds “contactless payment” capability for smart cards.