Sunday, September 8, 2024

Bluefield Area Transit implements AI-enabled cameras to replace aging technology

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BLUEFIELD, W. Va. (WVVA) -Use of Artificial intelligence (or AI) is being implemented all over the world, and its even reached the Two Virginias.

The Bluefield Area Transit buses are typically equipped with a camera and GPS system. But when it was time to replace this aging technology, they found another solution using AI.

This new system can do all the things the old one can but can also look for certain things like cellphone or seatbelt violations and can check on vehicle operation as well. When the AI notices something that it’s been told to notice, the transit’s general manager will get an alert.

John Reeves, the General manager of the Bluefield Area Transit says this may be the first time a West Virginian transit system has added AI technology into their vehicles, adding that this may not be the last time their technology gets an AI upgrade.

“It very well could be. We’re always looking out for new technology, ways to make our trips better, safer for our passengers, for our drivers…” says Reeves, “…we’re talking to other systems, other transits, we’re always looking for new technology and ways to implement it.”

The new AI system has already been in use in their vehicles for a few months, and, other than some false positives, they report great results. Reeves says he would recommend the transits of other areas consider adding AI to their buses as well.

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