Concept: GIS-based solution for improving cyclists’ road safety (GCITY)

Purpose and goal

The goal of this concept study is to explore the possibility of combining Geographic Information Systems (GIS), Building Information Modelling (BIM) and Ultra Wide Band (UWB) technology to build a solution that can warn drivers and cyclists for collisions by adding spatial components of moving objects rather than relying solely on visualization or sensor-based solutions mounted on the vehicles. In this concept study has an overall system architecture been designed in form of a conceptual model, called the GCITY Architecture, integrating GIS, BIM och UWB.

Expected results and effects

The main result of the concept study is an overall system architecture, called the GCITY Architecture, integrating the GIS, BIM and UWB. The GCITY Architecture is described on a conceptual level including involved services grouped in a number of modules, and aims to make use of both GPS and a Real Time Positioning System for receiving coordinates of moving vehicles. The study has also made a number of minor investigations of how to make use of the different technologies involved: GIS, BIM and UWB. Moreover, user and system requirements have been identified.

Planned approach and implementation

The research methodology applied was design science research (DSR). In DSR projects, the design and development of an artefact (that is, a solution in form of an IT system, a model or a method) is a main activity. In this concept study, the GCITY Architecture was the developed artefact. Important in DSR are also to define the practical problem to be addressed by the artefact as well as the requirements on the artefact, which have also been done in this project. A lightweight evaluation in form of an informed argument has also been carried out.