LETS APP – Design and implementation of software applications for smartphones for recording response data on Egnatia Motorway.

Abstract

Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS) and their applications are attracting significant attention in academia and industry. At the same time, the steadily increasing capabilities of mobile phones are transforming them from voice based communication devices to multimedia computers. New integrated features like cameras and GPS sensors extend the device functionality to areas where special equipment was previously needed. Thus, by using the sensing and communication technologies provided by smartphones, ITS can assist transportation authorities and vehicle drivers in making informative decisions and provide leisure and safe driving experience. Nonetheless, the new possibilities are not limited in just entertainment purposes, but can be applicable in work-related activities, as well. Using smartphones in field force management, like maintenance workers whose operating area is geographically large, is a promising aspect of ITS applications. In the context of this thesis we assist Egnatia Odos S.A. on automating their business processes of road maintenance in Egnatia Motorway. Egnatia Odos S.A. typical supporting activities include variant tasks which in many cases are done face to face or involve crucial paperwork, i.e. filling in specific information forms. To this end, we developed LEtS APP, an innovative application for smartphones and mobile devices with Android O.S. LEtS APP aims to provide features for automatic registration of emergency patrol intervention and lights night survey related information. In addition, the application provides an efficient communication framework for data restoration and parameterization. The application was evaluated against the requirements and standards set by the company during the design phase. Although this thesis focuses on LEtS APP, we believe that the proposed system is applicable to similar projects, as well.