Overwatch

City planners researched Waterborne Public Transportation (WPT) to overcome urban congestion and pollution. After background studies were performed in 44 cities, 7 factors describing WPT were identified. They represent the starting point for any public transport provider (PTP) looking to start WPT operations.

We found several prevalent challenges, like ferry procurement (high cost and production time) and the poor state of existing ferry fleets, as well as technical challenges like ice which creates reluctance for PTPs. We focus on developing an efficient ferry concept with the aim to make PTPs more confident towards WPT. Following this, the special case of Stockholm ice-borne WPT is considered, and lightweight ice-going hull solutions are proposed.

Overwatch uses AI/ML algorithms to capture and reproduce OCC’s Overhead Display System on a web application. It tracks all train positions in near real-time for customised alerts. The platform allows multiple alert types with adjustable thresholds. Its modular design can be customised for different use cases and new data sources can be integrated for a more comprehensive view of operations.

The solution is segregated from OT systems, and hence can facilitate access via mobile devices on a web UI, allowing better scalability and accessibility for multiple users and use cases.

OCC can pick-up and arrest train service delays and strengthen oversight on safety and security. This allowed CCL’s to achieve >1M MKBF (mean kilometre between failures). It also allows managing of events with serious safety implications effectively and efficiently.

This includes the continuous tracking of all train movements, with auto alerts for prolonged train stoppages or manual train operation for immediate attention. A stoppage timer quantifies train stoppage severity to allow for targeted responses. Moreover, there is continuous tracking of all train driving modes to trigger safety alarms whenever any train is switched to a manual mode of operation (thus bypassing signalling protection).

The OCC also detects network congestion and offers routing suggestions, in addition to providing additional info layers such as train and track fault history and hotspots.