IT Architecture and the Interoperability of Data in the Public Transportation Industry
The public transportation industry is complex and fragmented, all over the world. Public transit networks comprised of different vehicle types, ticketing models and operating systems are cost and labor intensive, and at the same time essential for the functioning of communities where they operate.
Public Transport Operators (PTOs) and Public Transport Authorities (PTAs) are constantly evolving to match the demands of riders, adopting new technologies and processes that can improve operations. VDV-301 (IBIS-IP) and ITxPT are two open standards that are helping to support this evolution.
What is interoperability in the public transportation industry?
Interoperability refers to the standardized data transfers between different systems, a common language to simplify communications.
VDV-301 and ITxPT are standards for the exchange of data between different components of a public transportation vehicle, such as the fare collection system, the passenger information system, and the vehicle management system.
The cost-reduction and data security benefits of interoperability are many, which is why PTOs, especially those in Europe, have decided that protocols like VDV-301 and ITxPT are needed to support optimization strategies. Among the main benefits for PTOs and passenger are:
- Improved efficiency and reliability: Combining the components and systems of different supplies lets PTOs and PTAs select the right device for their individual needs and embed it in their onboard network;
- Enhanced passenger experience: Providing passengers with real-time arrival and departure times for vehicles, real-time vehicle occupancy data, as well as information about disruptions to services;
- Reduced costs: VDV-301 and ITxPT can help to reduce the costs of operating public transportation services by making it easier for operators to procure and manage their systems;
- Fewer onboard components: Redundant systems take up a lot of space and, because they have more components and are more complex to install and maintain, are also more prone to failure. Interoperable systems share components such as routers or antennas.
Where are ITxPT and VDV-301 being used?
VDV-301 and ITxPT are already being used by a number of public transportation operators around the world. For example, VDV-301 is being used by the Deutsche Bahn in Germany and the Nederlandse Spoorwegen in the Netherlands. ITxPT is being used by the Transport for London in the United Kingdom and the Verkehrsverbund Rhein-Neckar in Germany.
As more and more PTOS adopt VDV-301 and ITxPT, we can expect to see even greater benefits for passengers and operators alike.
A Xovis sensor for a changing public transportation industry
Xovis is a company specialized in producing sensors and sensor-based solutions that different industries use to optimize people flow. The company's products are used by PTOs that want to improve operations and the passenger experience using objective, real-time data capture in accordance with evolving data privacy rules.
Automatic Passenger Counting (APC) devices can help PTOs understand how passengers interact with their services, on vehicles and in stations. They can also help improve the passenger experience by keeping riders informed about occupancy levels and service changes or alternatives.
Our APS-Series sensors are equipped with VDV-301 and ITxPT protocols, which means they can be easily integrated into the existing networks. PTOs can integrate occupancy data into other associated systems, such digital signage or announcements, designed to improve load-balancing on platforms and vehicles, improving safety.
The addition of the two protocols rounds out the suite of APS features most required of APC devices used in public transportation. Object Detection, another important industry need, is also available on APS sensors and included in the ITxPT and VDV-301 standards—providing PTOs with an added layer of insight they can use to improve ticketing and regulatory reporting.
VDV-301 and ITxPT are two open standards that are helping to revolutionize public transportation. By making it easier for different systems to communicate with each other, VDV-301 and ITxPT are helping to improve the efficiency, reliability, and passenger experience of public transportation services.
Tags: | transportation | interoperability | real-time data | passengers | APC | 3D sensors |
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