DECADE OF EXPERIENCE IN COMPUTER AIDED ROUTE SELECTION
A. Keith Turner · Photogrammetric Engineering & Remote Sensing · 1978
Experiments in computer aided route selection began in the late 1960s by combining minimum path algorithms and digital terrain models. Early applications led to progressive refinements. More advanced systems were developed and tested in 1975-76. The system is named GCARS (Generalized Computer Aided Route Selection). Design goals of the GCARS systems include (1) machine independence, (2) economy, (3) effective man-machine dialogs, (4) system flexibility, (5) sensitivity analysis capability, and (6) general compatability with existing planning methodology. Early versions only partially satisfied these goals, but most of these goals are substantially met by the current GCARS versions. A summary of a recent application to a 100 mile highway corridor in western New York and Pennsylvania illustrates CGARS capabilities.