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DRI and Orbital Agree to Software Development Alliance
Industry-Leading GPS Technologies Merged to Create Single Interface For Public Transit Operators RESEARCH TRIANGLE PARK, N.C., Digital Recorders, Inc. (DRI) announced that its has signed an agreement with Orbital Sciences Corporation's Transportation Management Systems (TMS) Division to combine two complementary GPS-based products into a single unit for the public transit industry. Under the agreement, DRI's "Talking Bus" voice announcement system will be integrated into Orbital's "SmartMDT" data and communications system to simplify operations for drivers of fixed-route buses, paratransit vehicles, maintenance and supervisory vehicles, light rail systems and trolleys. Benefits of this single operator interface include increased safety, reduced costs, reduced onboard hardware and streamlined maintenance. The new product will be marketed under the name "SmartStop."
Using Orbital's computer-aided dispatch/automatic vehicle location (CAD/AVL) technology, SmartStop allows public transit operators to improve operational performance and efficiency. At the same time, capitalizing on DRI's expertise in voice annunciation and sign control systems, it enables them to meet Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) requirements for the disabled and elderly. For instance, aboard a bus or similar vehicle, SmartStop initiates "next-stop" announcements and displays based on previously stored geographic "trigger" points. Outside the bus, as doors open, SmartStop advises waiting passengers about the vehicle's destination and route number. In addition to these functions, SmartStop features data preparation and storage solutions, as well as options for operator-controlled and public service announcements. SmartStop also provides upgrade paths for customers who initially purchase a CAD/AVL system and then add an annunciator system, or vice versa.
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