SkyTrain Uses Long-Range Sensors to Increase Accessibility for Passengers with Disabilities

February 4, 2018 - Metro Vancouver users will soon be able to use radio-frequency identification cards (RFID) rather than a tap of their current card, making it easier for all passengers to catch their train. The new gate will use a long-range proximity sensor to detect the Compass Card’s RFID radio signal from a distance. As part of the Universal Fare Gate Access Program, the TransLink SkyTrain is the world’s first transit authority system that offers hands-free automated access to passengers with disabilities. According to Fare Gate Accessibility, approximately 15 out of 50 people in a wheelchair were unable to access the fare gates which had been installed in 2015. Erin Windross of TransLink SkyTrain said, "The only requirement on the part of commuters was that you had to tap your card at the gate, which works well for the vast majority of passengers." He notes however that this isn’t an option for all passengers. 

 

The technology was developed by Hyperlight Systems and Translink Skytrain and is expected to increase accessibility while helping cut costs long-term. Ashish Sachedva, Hyperlight’s founder, and director said, “We understood that we needed to solve this problem without new construction. We wanted to build a solution that used the existing fare gate, with integrated software, so that we could use RFID to mimic the tap.” Passengers will complete a form when applying for the new Compass Card, and travelers with disabilities can note their disability type(s), so the agency can be sure to accommodate their needs. The new gate is expected to be installed by the end of this year, and will not require an attendant as the current gates do. Kevin Desmond, TransLink's CEO said, "This is all about empowering individuals and making sure we make our system as accessible as possible.” SkyTrain follows an increasing trend to improve travel accessibility and safety for all.  [Source: Claire Swedberg, IOT Journal]