The Henry Ford's Innovation Nation Season 8 Episode 5 Toll Roads

The Henry Ford's Innovation Nation is a television show that explores the world of new technology, inventions, and innovations. The show, hosted by Mo Rocca, showcases some of the most creative and inspiring people when it comes to technological advances.

Season 8 Episode 5 of The Henry Ford's Innovation Nation is titled "Toll Roads." This episode dives into the history of toll roads and how they have evolved over time.

The episode starts by giving viewers a brief history of toll roads - how they were used back in the days to maintain roads and how they later became a source of revenue for the government. The show then introduces viewers to some creative minds who are working on revolutionary technologies that could change how toll roads work.

One of the first toll road innovations the show explores is a company called FTS (Fulfillment, Technology, and Service). The company has developed a cutting-edge technology that can detect toll violations in real-time. The technology uses cameras and advanced software to identify license plates and match them with the records of registered vehicles.

The show also features a story on a group of researchers from Oregon State University who are developing new ways to charge electric vehicles for using toll roads. The team has come up with a unique design that uses wireless charging technology, which means that electric vehicles can get charged while they're driving on the toll road.

The episode then showcases the work of Conduent, a company that is revolutionizing the way toll systems function. The company's technology automates the toll collection process, which means that drivers no longer need to stop while passing through a toll plaza. Conduent's system uses cameras and sensors that capture the license plate of the vehicle and then charges the toll automatically.

The show also features another company, Global Toll Solutions (GTS), which is working towards developing advanced electronic tolling solutions. GTS has come up with a unique technology that can detect the exact size and weight of a vehicle as it passes through a tolling station. This information will be used to determine a fair toll amount and ensure that drivers are not overcharged.

In addition to showcasing these innovative toll road solutions, the episode also features the story of a young inventor who has developed a new type of tire that can change its shape depending on the road conditions. The inventor's technology uses liquid crystal elastomer and carbon fiber to create a tire that can transform when it encounters a wet, icy, or uneven road.

Overall, Season 8 Episode 5 of The Henry Ford's Innovation Nation is an incredibly fascinating episode that showcases some of the most exciting technological advancements when it comes to toll roads. The episode features some of the most creative minds in the industry who are working towards making toll roads safer, more efficient, and environmentally friendly. It's a must-watch for anyone who is interested in the world of technology and innovation.