Bombardier's anti-collision system for trams receives certification
The DAS system gives trams drivers advanced warning of a potential impact with pedestrians, bikers, other vehicles, or objects obstructing the tram tracks.
The system uses a network of stereovision cameras to identify and track the movement of objects on or near a tram's path. Photo: Bombardier Transportation
2 min to read
The system uses a network of stereovision cameras to identify and track the movement of objects on or near a tram's path. Photo: Bombardier Transportation
Bombardier Transportation announced their innovative Drivers Assistance System (DAS) received homologation for passenger service in Germany. Starting in August 2015, trams equipped with this innovative tram safety platform will enter service in Frankfurt am Main, Germany.
The DAS is an anti-collision system that gives trams drivers advanced warning of a potential impact with pedestrians, bikers, other vehicles or objects obstructing the tram tracks. The system uses a network of stereovision cameras to identify and track the movement of objects on or near a tram's path. Should a potential collision be identified, the system issues an audio alert for the tram driver and can even perform and automatic braking function.
Ad Loading...
This new safety platform compliments the recent development of Bombardier's BodyGuard(TM), a type of external airbag for trams that prevents pedestrians from being trapped under a moving tram, which is typically the cause for the most serious injuries (also developed in collaboration with AIT). Both technologies demonstrate Bombardier's commitment to developing cutting-edge technologies that improve vehicle safety for operators, passengers and pedestrians, according to the company.
The highly-complex DAS platform was made possible with technical support from the Austrian Institute of Technology (AIT) and Frankfurt am Main's transport authority the Verkehrsgesellschaft Frankfurt am Main (VFG), who provided testing opportunities. Following approval by the technical supervisory authority, VFG's vehicle no. 272 is now the first tram in the world to operate normal service equipped with DAS. It is currently being used for training and VGF will soon equip its other 73 "S" tramcars with the DAS, making the Frankfurt fleet the first to be completely equipped with this new safety technology. This upgrade will run until December 2016.
The audit found multiple safety compliance failures at the Charlotte agency, citing elevated assault risks and ordering corrective action within 30 days.
While their comprehensive analysis of bus stops focused on Massachusetts, the researchers are excited about the generalizability of the findings and application to other locations.
Transit agencies depend on safe, reliable vehicles to deliver consistent service. This eBook examines how next-generation fleet software helps agencies move from reactive processes to proactive operations through automated maintenance, real-time safety insights, and integrated data. Learn how fleets are improving uptime, safety outcomes, and operational efficiency.
The new filters include substantially more activated carbon than traditional HVAC filters, which is especially helpful in providing a better transit riding experience for vulnerable populations, particularly children, seniors, and people with chronic illnesses, according to the CTA.
MCTS officials said the new pilots are part of a broader commitment to improving the rider experience through proactive, visible safety strategies that balance enforcement with customer support.
In a recent episode of METROspectives, LYT CEO Timothy Menard discusses how artificial intelligence, cloud connectivity, and real-time data are transforming traffic management, boosting bus reliability, and enabling system-wide transit optimization across cities.
METRO’s People Movement highlights the latest leadership changes, promotions, and personnel news across the public transit, motorcoach, and people mobility sectors.
In this latest episode of METROspectives, we explore the evolving role of transit standards, including how they're responding to emerging technologies, climate change, and the growing need for equity and sustainability.
