User-Vehicle Identity Linking for Dynamic Traffic Zone Pricing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing congestion pricing schemes lack the ability to dynamically adjust fees based on a variety of factors beyond time of day and vehicle size, failing to provide a fair and realistic pricing mechanism.
Innovation Solution
Combining user identity information with vehicle information using wireless communication systems to generate dynamic traffic zone fees, considering variables such as user profile data, vehicle type, traffic conditions, and time, through a system that integrates with city authority networks for real-time billing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If basic congestion pricing schemes are used with fixed rates based on time of day and vehicle size, then implementation is simple, but pricing fairness and adaptability are poor
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic pricing by continuously adjusting fees based on real-time traffic conditions, user profiles, and vehicle characteristics. The system transitions from static fixed rates to dynamic variable pricing that adapts to changing circumstances, allowing prices to fluctuate based on current demand, congestion levels, and user-specific factors.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes multiple pricing parameters simultaneously including base rate, time component, vehicle type modifier, and user profile adjustments. By varying these parameters based on real-time data from traffic sensors, user accounts, and vehicle identifiers, the system achieves comprehensive pricing adaptability without requiring a completely new infrastructure.
2Measurement precision
If multiple factors such as user profile data and traffic conditions are incorporated into pricing, then pricing fairness improves, but data collection and processing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses a multi-functional approach where a single integrated platform handles data collection from multiple sources (traffic sensors, user profiles, vehicle identifiers), processing, and pricing calculation. This universal system consolidates what would otherwise be separate complex subsystems into one coordinated entity that manages all data processing tasks.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary processing layer that sits between data collection points and pricing calculation. This intermediate system aggregates raw data from traffic conditions, user profiles, and vehicle information, processes it according to pricing rules, and generates final fees. This mediator simplifies the overall architecture by centralizing the complex data processing logic.
3Productivity
If real-time billing integration with city authority networks is implemented, then revenue collection efficiency improves, but system integration complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by pre-establishing communication protocols, authentication mechanisms, and data exchange formats with city authority networks before actual billing occurs. User profiles and vehicle information are pre-validated and stored, allowing rapid real-time processing when billing events occur, thus reducing the complexity of real-time integration.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback loops where billing information is continuously exchanged between the congestion pricing system and city authority networks. Real-time confirmation of payments, updates on pricing changes, and synchronization of vehicle/user data create feedback mechanisms that improve revenue collection efficiency while managing integration complexity through automated two-way communication.
Data Source
AI summary
The described technology is generally directed towards combining user identity information, corresponding to user profile data, with vehicle information, such as for use by a traffic zone management system that charges a fee for vehicle usage in a traffic zone. A user device, such as a mobile communications device, can be coupled to vehicle information such as via a transponder that is detected by roadside units, or by uploading the combined information to a wireless communications system. Based on the combination of information, different billing rates or the like can be applied to different users and vehicle types. The technology can work with various communication systems, including roadside units and wireless communication networks.