System Solutions from Siemens VDO for Buses and Trams at InnoTrans 2006, Berlin

The VICOS-LIO system solution integrates all components of an automatic vehicle location and control system and helps the transport authority to use its existing vehicle fleet more efficiently and to continuously optimize and adapt the deployment of its personnel. The end result is a more punctual and reliable service; the transport authority can operate its vehicles more economically and at the same time protect the environment.

The IBISplus onboard computer: A computer center on wheels

The IBISplus onboard computer is the most important mobile component of VICOS-LIO. This latest generation of vehicle computer is a true computing center on wheels. In terms of design and functionality, the onboard computer is tailored for use in road and rail vehicles of public transport operations. It knows “its” schedule and is able to establish its actual position using the signals from the satellite based Global Positioning System (GPS) or on the basis of beacons. From these two pieces of information – position and schedule – IBISplus can work out whether the vehicle is running on time, or whether it is ahead of schedule or delayed. This information is transmitted to the control center, which knows the current operating status on the entire route network and where necessary is able to initiate corresponding actions. Depending on the system configuration, IBISplus controls the various devices in the vehicle (e.g. the GPS receiver or sen¬sors for passenger counting) and guarantees contact with the control center.

Touch or press: A choice between two operating concepts

The IBISplus onboard computer can be operated via two different types of mobile data terminal: via the IBISplus-MDT mobile data terminal, complete with foil keyboard and quarter VGA screen, or the fully graphic mobile touch terminal, IBISplus-Touch.

The resolution of the anti-reflective, fully graphical screen of the IBISplus-MDT is 320×240 pixels. To the left of this there are five direct keys, which are configured in accordance with the requirements of the customer. Below and to the right of the screen there are a total of nine softkeys, whose functions are controlled by the running application. The numeric keypad on the right-hand side of the mobile data terminal corresponds to that of a cell phone and also allows the user to enter text.

The driver’s main task is to drive, he should not have to be concerned with operating the onboard computer – this consideration was central to the development of the IBISplus terminal with a 12” touch screen (IBISplus-Touch). The large screen area offers space for a clearly designed, visually attractive user interface, which allows intuitive operation and ensures minimum distraction for the driver. In addition, the timeless design ensures long-term protection for any investment: Customized changes in the operating concept and in the design of the user interface are easily implemented via software modifications. It is also extremely flexible when it comes to the integration of other applications, such as for example, ticketing or video monitoring of the passenger area.

SmartInfo: Modular displays for stops

SmartInfo is an innovative, cost-effective system for providing dynamic passenger information at stops. The display system is available for interior and exterior applications and has been designed on the basis of the “plug-and-display” philosophy.

This concept makes it possible to equip all stops of specific routes or even the entire route network with displays for dynamic passenger information, at relatively low cost. With that, dynamic passenger information attains a whole new status: The transport authority is able to keep its passengers fully in the picture with regard to the current operational situation – in real time.

Its modern, timeless design, its versatile application possibilities and its simple installation and maintenance have helped SmartInfo to become the de-facto standard. The modular construction of the SmartInfo system means it is possible to combine the display unit with a matching clock and/or loudspeaker. To ensure SmartInfo blends in with the corporate image of the transport authority its design is open to customization. This applies, for example, to the choice of the fixed labeling, the design of the screens and the colors used. The transport authority also has a choice when it comes to how the signs are installed – from masts to ceiling attachments. For use in major interchanges, such as central bus stations, SmartInfo is also available in a large-scale format.

Information in the vehicle – dynamic and comprehensive

The VICOS-LIO control system provides the ideal platform for dynamic passenger information – wherever the passengers are. The IBISplus onboard computer controls all information media in the vehicle, for example the electro-acoustic system for announcements, the interior and exterior displays as well as the new multifunctional display. This innovative device firstly allows a comprehensive and wide reaching display of operational information; for example, next stop, secured transfers and maps of the stop localities. The multifunctional display also opens up undreamt of possibilities for representing non-operational information: for example, restaurants in the vicinity of the approaching stop could advertise their lunchtime offers. Naturally, the multifunctional display has the capacity to represent the information in a colorful, animated and eye-catching way.

IBISpos: One device for control system and fare management

On the basis of the IBISplus platform, the IBISpos ticket printer cleverly and in modular format combines the functions of the control and information system with the possibilities of modern fare management. The ergonomic operation of all dialogues on one operating unit is especially worthy of special mention. By linking with IBISplus functionalities there is huge scope for the modular and scalable implementation of additional features. On the basis of the main ticketing function, additional functions such as GPS location, integrated digital announcements, integrated up/downloading of control system and ticketing data via WLAN as well as linking up to digital trunked radio networks, can be implemented step-by-step.

A clear message to fare dodgers: Controlled entry

More and more transport authorities in Germany are introducing controlled entry, with the aim of reducing the levels of fare evasion and securing income from the sale of tickets. In close cooperation with our partner company, Systemtechnik GmbH, Siemens VDO is offering a powerful system solution for “controlled front entry”, which consists of a mobile unit in the vehicle and a background system. In the vehicle, a universal card reader is combined with the IBISplus onboard computer and the IBISplus-MDT data terminal to form one integrated functional unit, which permits the fast and secure checking of all tickets and travel passes, the results of which are displayed immediately, both visually and acoustically. This check is made on different levels and takes approx 700 ms per ticket; a check is made against the positive and negative lists. The ticket details and card contents can be made visible. The concept also supports the marking of tickets. With the introduction of the “controlled front entry” system a transport authority is not only securing its income but is also sending a clear message to any potential fare dodgers.

Presence detection: Simply get on and go

With the new ALLFA ticket generation, we now have the technology for a new generation of fare management systems. This has been made possible by the combination of innovative recording technology and electronic tariff calculations on the basis of the VDV core application. This pioneering application of a ticketing system, which has been developed on the basis of presence detection together with various partners and successfully tested under realistic conditions at the Oberelbe transport authority, has achieved for the first time the true convenience of electronic ticketing. Thanks to the fully automated system of presence detection, each and every passenger can now enjoy the convenience of a rail card/travel pass holder, i.e. he can simply get on and go. He can also obtain a detailed breakdown of all his journeys (available on request). The tiresome queuing at ticket machines, searching for change and validating tickets can all now be assigned to the past.

There are two pictures accompanying this press release, which can be downloaded from the Internet together with the text contained here, at:
http://www.siemensvdo.com/press/releases/publictransportsolutions.