Mitsubishi Electric Announces Concepts for Advanced Rail Travel

Mitsubishi Electric Corporation announced a variety of conceptual solutions for more convenient and comfortable rail stations and train cars, including enhancements such as barrier-free fare collection in stations, personalized onboard services, and more. The concepts will be on display at Mass-Trans Innovation Japan 2017 at the Makuhari Messe exhibition complex in Chiba, Japan from November 29 to December 1.

Features

1. Barrier-free fare collection in stations
   • The concept proposes barrier-free fare collection equipped with wireless communication technology so passengers do not have to pass an IC card over a reader. They simply pass through to be authorized.
   • The solution enables wheelchair users and people with strollers or big luggage to pass smoothly.
   • Each passenger's authorization status and walking path are displayed on the floor.
2. Support for in-station tracking by railway operators
   • The locations of persons in the station or on trains are monitored so staff can provide assistance when needed, such as for people with disabilities, and to prevent fare evasion.
3. In-progress assistance and other activities are visible by other staff to help maximize service.
   • Monitors for convenient, personalized onboard services based on IC cards
   • Updates about delays among other information and visualization of refreshment cart location.
   • LCD screens on seatbacks enable value-added onboard services.
   • Personalized services are based on the information in each individual passenger's IC card.
     • Alarm function based on the passenger's registered destination, adjusted for train delays
     • Recommendations for onboard refreshments based on personal preferences
     • Video content recommended according to ride times and viewing/listening options

People are becoming increasingly interested in seamless transportation that enables everyone to travel comfortably and enjoy useful services. While existing automated ticket gates allow most passengers to pass smoothly, it can be difficult for people sitting in wheelchairs, pulling large luggage or pushing strollers to pass an IC card over the reader and/or fit through a narrow gate. In addition, there is increasing demand for specialized assistance and personalized service on trains.