336 - Hardware and Software Developments

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ICT and Transport

Air Travel

Airline Simulation

Simulations allow pilots to test challenging and dangerous scenarios without risking the lives of passengers.

Flying by wire

Aircraft now have auto-pilot and computer systems, this allows for the pilot to hand the in-flight controls over to the automated system.

Flight control movements are converted into electronic signals, the flight control computers determine how to provide the expected response.

Computer commands are are input automatically to help stabilise the aircraft and perform other tasks.

Security

Luggage scanning is used to identify metallic, electronic and liquid items.

Biometric data is taken from passports, iris scanning, and photographs. This is done before going through customs and before boarding.

In rare cases whole body scanning is used on select passengers, however this has raised some concerns about the level of detail it shows.

Hand-held scanners are used to detect metal and other objects.

Design

ICT has improved the designs of aircraft, engines and fuel storage/delivery systems. Size and range has been improved.

The monitoring of engine performance has made it possible to take a trip without having to stop for fuel.

Designing aircraft using ICT allows for more aerodynamic and fuel efficient designs.

Global Positioning Systems (GPS)

GPS enables pilots to know exactly where they are.

Passengers can also use GPS to view where they are and their ETA.

Intelligent Motors

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)

ABS controls the braking system to ensure that the car stops safely in a variety of weather conditions.

The system also handles functions such as traction and stability control.

Engine Management Systems (EMS)

Smooth engine operation is made possible by the EMS. The management system also includes microprocessors such as the Engine Control Unit (ECU).

Engine functions such as spark timing and fuel:air ratio are controlled by the ECU. Having this type of data stored makes servicing and repairs easier, however is becomes more difficult to service and repair at home as specific readers are needed to decode the data held in the EMS.

Fuel consumption becomes more efficient through the fuel management system.

Driving Controls

Car functions such as cruise control have become more sophisticated. Some cars even warn the driver when they are driving too close to the car in front.

Sensors and cameras are now fitted in cars to allow for more control over parking. In some extreme cases the car can even park itself using data from the sensors, without the need of driver intervention.

Wobble control is now implemented to warn drivers if they have started to move over to the opposite lane. This is useful for tired drivers.

Safety Controls

Sensors in the car are used to set off airbags if impact is imminent.

Seatbelts have the function to tighten automatically in the event of a crash

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