A smart transport system that aims to improve security, passenger service, and operational management has been launched across Berlin’s S-Bahn rail network.
The system is the result of a partnership between S-Bahn Berlin, a subsidiary of Deutsche Bahn, and command and control solutions company Synectics.
The Synectics’ synergy hybrid cloud software platform, based at S-Bahn’s 4S operational headquarters, connects, responds and collaborates with passengers and on-board train staff. It also links teams at stations as well as with field personnel working across the network.
By leveraging tools to form custom API gateways, Synergy integrates to and interoperates with S-Bahn’s proprietary systems, as well as all third-party technologies, devices, and communication solutions.
The platform also enables its team to be continuously informed by sensor data obtained from integrated systems.
Furthermore, the project features a new mobile application allowing the S-Bahn’s workforce to receive automated task assignments based on role, skills, and location. The app then directly updates the system on task delivery.
S-Bahn Berlin said the system is a step forward in the way operational command, control, and communications are carried out within urban rail environments.
Henning Oelze, project manager, S-Bahn, said: “Synergy’s powerful integrations, intelligent digitisation of workflows, workforce management capabilities, and computer-aided dispatch functionality combine to deliver a hugely exciting outcome.
“The platform offers complete visibility of network-wide activity and the ability to coordinate and automate the right response, at the right time, to any requirement.”
What’s more, the system is designed to facilitate the communication, deployment and appropriate action of different teams, from fulfilling a planned maintenance task to sending people with the most appropriate training to deal with an evolving security or safety issue
This will reportedly equip S-Bahn in processing and reacting to events within pre-defined response times and enable the company to manage its workforce as effectively as possible.
The project went live on 01 January 2021 and will continue throughout the year. Planned developments to the platform will see expansion of the workforce management functionality and improved operational efficiency within incident and task management assignments.
