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State-of-the-art Connectivity and Infotainment System for an Enhanced Digital and Travel Experience

2/15/2022

Abstract

Most countries have recognized the need to upgrade their railway transportation systems, especially the countries with old railway infrastructure and equipment. As a result, they are striving to make considerable investment, specifically passenger carriages and infrastructure.

Project Introduction

Road and rail transportation are the oldest and most popular modes of transportation. Notwithstanding, the advantages of rail transportation are substantially greater than those of road transportation. For example, rail transportation is more efficient and cost-effective, particularly for long-distance journeys and moving large volumes of goods and services. Rail transportation is also a greener, more sustainable, and environmentally friendly option. Additionally, shippers who convert long-haul freight from road to rail transportation save about 10-40% of fuel costs, demonstrating considerable financial savings. 

However, although technology has evolved substantially, railway transportation has not advanced at the same rate. Some companies have maintained the same rolling stock, rail track, and equipment from decades ago. So, the challenges associated with using older trains and equipment can negate the efficiency and effectiveness of railway transportation, leading to unpleasant travel experiences and missed freight transport opportunities.In an effort to deal with these challenges, most countries have recognized the need to upgrade their railway transportation systems, especially the countries with old railway infrastructure and equipment. As a result, they are striving to make considerable investment, specifically passenger carriages and infrastructure. This will increase the competitiveness, quality, and productivity of its services whilst creating a unique passenger travel experience.

Project Requirements

One of the largest rail operators in Europe, partnered with a local railway system integrator to modernize their intercity trains. The critical infrastructure includes communications, public administration, advertisements, broadcasting, and entertainment systems. 

The project focused entirely on retrofitting old train carriages to achieve the following:

  • Customizable and replicable system that can be used across different countries.
  • Flawless multi-system integration with an all-in-one solution.
  • Enhanced passenger experience.
  • New revenue streams through in-app marketing and personalized services.

Project Description

An integral factor was the need to meet the demand for sufficient wireless communication, entertainment services, and infrastructure in carriages—all within the stringent automation demands of transportation systems. As a result, a technical solution was developed, which included:

  • High-quality content yields on the entertainment system.
  • In-train wireless service with low latency and high-quality streaming.
  • Cellular communication systems comprising LTE and 5G networks.
  • High-speed Ethernet network on trains.

Furthermore, the IT system must support connection via various means, including WWAN, Ethernet or Wi-Fi, to boost the capacity, reliability, and overall performance.

Communication systems in transportation are complex; therefore, each system was extensively analyzed to ensure all technical requirements were met and were compatible with existing systems. Advantech configured and delivered the train Ethernet/wireless network and provided hardware for the multi-media platform system. Furthermore, the hardware was designed to meet the unique specifications of each system in terms of quality, capacity, and performance to ensure information is transmitted effectively and seamlessly

Project Implementation

  • ITA-5831: Connectivity server
  • ITA-5231S: Onboard multi-media server
  • EKI-9510G: PoE managed Ethernet switch
  • EKI-6333AC-M12: Wi-Fi access point/hotspot
  • CCTV System 

Conclusion

As part of the improvement and advancement of rail transportation systems, a unique and scalable solution-ready package that integrated enhanced connectivity, hardware and software, content, support, and service was developed.

The project resulted in a premium vehicle designed and delivered to the customer based on the customer’s specific technical requirements. This vehicle included infrastructure to offer supplementary services for the passengers like premium Internet connection, Wi-Fi connectivity, innovative infotainment, personalized services, and an onboard business communication and engagement platform. These supplementary services are key for customer satisfaction as passengers now demand the availability of communications systems like the ones they have in their private vehicles or their homes.

The project resulted in a premium vehicle designed and delivered to the customer based on the customer’s specific technical requirements. This vehicle included infrastructure to offer supplementary services for the passengers like premium Internet connection, Wi-Fi connectivity, innovative infotainment, personalized services, and an onboard business communication and engagement platform. These supplementary services are key for customer satisfaction as passengers now demand the availability of communications systems like the ones they have in their private vehicles or their homes.

As a result, the successful integration of the highest quality of manufactured products with existing systems such as passenger information, CCTV monitoring, and advertising was included in the all-in-one rail transportation solution for a premium passenger experience. This solution also benefits the railway operator through the ability to retrofit many old train vehicles across several countries and the creation of additional revenue streams through in-app marketing and personalized services.