Ground Projection Transfer Information for Rail Vehicles

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing methods for providing transfer information at tram stops are insufficient, especially in complex locations with multiple transfer options, causing confusion for passengers, particularly the elderly and children.

Innovation Solution

Project visually perceptible signals, such as laser light projections, onto the surface of roads or sidewalks to provide transfer and evacuation information, which can be synchronized with acoustic signals and adjusted based on operating states and environmental conditions.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Loss of information

If traditional signs or electronic displays are used to provide transfer information at tram stops, then the information can be displayed, but the information is insufficient to inform passengers in confusing locations with multiple transfer options

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetransfer information clarityVSAvoidinformation display system
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of informationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent projects transfer information directly onto the ground surface (2D plane) rather than using traditional vertical signs or displays. This dimensional change allows passengers to receive directional guidance (arrows, markers) directly on the walking path, making the information more intuitive and easier to understand in complex transfer scenarios with multiple options.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

2Loss of information

If acoustic signals are added to provide transfer information, then the information can be conveyed, but unnecessary noise pollution is created

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetransfer information deliveryVSAvoidnoise pollution
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of informationVSObject-generated harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent extracts the acoustic signal component from the information delivery system and replaces it with visual ground projections. This removes the harmful noise pollution while maintaining effective information delivery through visual markers, directional arrows, and text displayed on the ground surface.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

3Loss of information

If visual signals are projected onto the ground to provide transfer information, then wayfinding clarity is improved, but the signal strength must be adjusted based on environmental conditions

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvewayfinding information clarityVSAvoidsignal intensity adaptation
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of informationVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent employs dynamic adjustment of projection signal strength based on environmental conditions such as ambient light levels, time of day, and weather. The projection system automatically adapts its intensity to ensure optimal visibility and information clarity across varying operational contexts, maintaining effective wayfinding guidance.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

4Adaptability or versatility

If multiple transfer options are provided at a stop, then passenger choices are increased, but the situation becomes more confusing for passengers

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetransfer option availabilityVSAvoidpassenger navigation
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the transfer information by projecting distinct visual markers, directional arrows, and text for each transfer option directly on the ground. This segmentation allows passengers to clearly distinguish between multiple transfer choices and follow the specific path intended for their destination, reducing confusion while maintaining multiple options.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

Enhances passenger guidance by reducing noise pollution and improving wayfinding clarity, especially in complex transfer scenarios, by providing customizable and attention-grabbing visual cues.

Implementation Method 1

The projection is preferably a light projection, in particular a laser light projection

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectLaser: Laser

Data Source

PatentEP3080798B1Method for displaying boarding information, connection information or flight information for a rail vehicle
Publication Date: 2025.11.12 ALSTOM HOLDINGS SA
  • EP3080798B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3080798B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP3080798B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

The invention relates to a method for displaying boarding information and/or connection information or flight information, for a first rail vehicle (1), comprising the step of projecting at least one item of boarding information (6) and/or connection information (11, 12, 13) or flight information onto the surface of a path (7) or a street, said at least one item of boarding information (6) and/or connection information or the flight information being projected by means of a projection device or a plurality of projection devices (2a-2j). The invention also relates to a rail vehicle configured for said method.