Kennesaw State University Pioneers Innovations in Transportation Technology
KENNESAW, Ga. | Nov 7, 2024
In an ambitious initiative echoing the collaborative nature of ant colonies, researchers at Kennesaw State University are envisioning a world where driverless cars work in flawless harmony to improve traffic conditions, minimize congestion, and significantly reduce emissions.
A Visionary at the Helm
Leading the charge is Mahyar Amirgholy, an assistant professor within the Southern Polytechnic College of Engineering and Engineering Technology and an affiliate researcher at Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory. Amirgholy’s diverse projects focus on enhancing transportation efficiency and sustainability through cutting-edge technology.
Harnessing the Power of Automation
Amirgholy’s team at the Futra Lab is at the forefront of developing a control system that allows connected automated vehicles (CAVs) to communicate seamlessly with both traffic signals and each other via a cloud computing network. This remarkable capability allows CAVs to synchronize their speeds and integrate movements with human-driven vehicles, promoting fluidity in traffic flow.
Smart Traffic Management
By optimizing speeds and sharing location data, CAVs can facilitate better traffic light timing, considerably reducing congestion and delays. This innovative synchronization not only improves traffic conditions but also cuts down on fuel consumption by minimizing unnecessary idling and erratic driving patterns.
The Future of Electric Vehicles
Another major area of study for Amirgholy’s group is the electrification of transportation. While electric vehicles are commonly viewed as environmentally friendly, the soaring demand for charging them poses new challenges. The added stress on the power grid can inadvertently increase emissions from power plants, particularly in states relying heavily on fossil fuels.
Impact on Local Emissions
“The effect of increasing EV energy consumption on power plant emissions largely hinges on the grid’s energy mix,” explained Amirgholy. He shared findings from his study comparing the implications of increased EV usage in California, Georgia, New York, and Washington. Georgia’s reliance on fossil fuels means that merely adopting electric vehicles may not lead to lower emissions, underscoring the importance of renewable energy sources.
Predictive Tools for a Greener Future
To combat these challenges, Amirgholy’s group is developing an interactive tool powered by machine learning, designed to predict electricity consumption from EVs and assess its impact on grid emissions across the U.S. This tool aims to provide valuable insights for policymakers and energy planners.
National-Level Solutions
In collaboration with Berkeley Lab and supported by the Federal Highway Administration, Amirgholy is pioneering a national-scale multimodal transportation model that utilizes advanced machine learning techniques. This initiative aims to create an analytical tool, known as GEMS (Geospatial Economic Multimodal Systems Modeling), to inform policy analysis and aid in strategic investment decisions across the nation.
Innovative Urban Analysis
Building on the insights gained from GEMS, Amirgholy’s team is also focused on crafting an advanced machine learning model tailored for urban network analysis. This work includes collaborative projects with the University of Georgia, funded by the Georgia Department of Transportation, aiming to address real-time monitoring through artificial intelligence and wireless technologies.
A Call to Policymakers
Amirgholy’s commitment to harnessing technology for societal benefit drives his advocacy for policymakers to integrate emerging technologies into transportation systems. “The choice is clear,” he stated. “We must embrace these technologies to modernize our outdated infrastructure or face a future burdened by increasing traffic and pollution.”
Empowering Future Innovators
Duleep Prasanna Rathgamage Don, a Ph.D. candidate in Data Science and Analytics, has profoundly benefited from his experience as a graduate research assistant in the FUTRA Lab. “This research has transformed my perspective on transportation technology,” he noted, attributing his newfound skills and insights in urban network analysis to hands-on experience with machine learning models.
A Collaborative Learning Experience
First-Year Scholar Chrisley Licona-Hernandez, studying civil engineering, reflected on the challenges she faced in the lab, particularly regarding her limited coding background. Her perseverance led to quick learning and improved research skills, emphasizing the importance of teamwork and shared knowledge in overcoming obstacles.
Driving Change Through Technology
Amirgholy’s research underscores the crucial role that emerging technologies can play in addressing complex transportation challenges. With a focus on enhancing mobility, efficiency, and sustainability, he aims to transform urban transport systems for the betterment of society at large.
Commitment to Underserved Communities
“My goal is to leverage new technologies to develop solutions that improve the quality of life for everyone, especially for underserved communities lacking access to these advancements,” Amirgholy stated, reinforcing his commitment to equity in technology deployment.
The Path Ahead
Kennesaw State University stands at the forefront of transportation technology innovation, and Amirgholy’s multifaceted research reflects a broader trend towards technological integration in daily life. As more individuals enter the field, the potential for transformative change becomes increasingly evident.
The Next Frontier in Transportation Technology
With ongoing advancements shaped by collaboration between academia and industry, the future of smart transportation looks promising. Researchers continue to work tirelessly to ensure that the shift towards automation and electrification is as seamless and beneficial as possible.
Conclusion: A Future Driven by Innovation
The projects led by Amirgholy and his team exemplify the potential for technology to create a sustainable future. As Kennesaw State University continues to cultivate innovative approaches in transportation, the implications for traffic management, emissions reduction, and energy consumption are profound. Embracing these advancements could very well redefine our travel experience and safeguard our environment for generations to come.
— Story by Raynard Churchwell
For more information on Kennesaw State University’s initiatives and research projects, visit kennesaw.edu.
