Abstract: A safety and accessibility enhancement retractable pathway system for railway terminals, comprising multiple platforms 101 installed across a railway terminal, an imaging unit 102 coupled with a proximity sensor detect arrival and position of train’s door relative to platform, a motorized slider 103 translate a sloped member 104 to deploy member 104 for smooth passenger boarding, a LiDAR sensor determine gap between platform and train, a knife arrangement 105 adjust vertical height and alignment of sloped member 104, a U-shaped frame 106 positioned along sides of sloped member 104 lift and support passengers with limited mobility in boarding train, a piezoelectric unit coupled with multiple FSR detect contact of passenger’s feet and mobility aids on platform, multiple hinged flaps 110 collect debris that is extracted to a collection chamber 112 via a vacuum unit 111, multiple air blowers 113 dry wet surfaces on platform.
Description:FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0001] The present invention relates to a safety and accessibility enhancement retractable pathway system for railway terminals that provides a pathway/ ramp that automatically bridge the gap between the train and the railway terminal platform by detecting the height of the train door and the length of the gap between the train and the railway terminal for an easy and smooth boarding of passengers into the train.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] The gap between the railway platform and the train is a common issue in many stations, where the train may not align perfectly with the platform edge. This gap varies in width and height, creating difficulties for passengers, especially the elderly, those with disabilities, and families with small children. Boarding or alighting becomes challenging as passengers have to step over the gap, risking tripping or falling. Large gaps make it difficult to bring luggage or strollers on board, and they also increase the risk of objects or feet getting caught, leading to potential accidents or injuries during train entry or exit.
[0003] Traditionally, gaps between railway platforms and trains are addressed using portable gap fillers or bridging devices. These are usually placed manually by railway staff before the train arrives. The gap fillers are simple, temporary platforms or boards that are positioned along the train's edge to cover the space, allowing passengers to board or alight more easily. These devices are typically made of wood or metal and are designed to withstand the weight of passengers. In some cases, rubber mats are also used, especially in smaller gaps. However, this method requires staff to be present, are time-consuming, and may not be as effective for larger gaps or when platforms are not uniformly aligned with trains, posing safety concerns.
[0004] US2010224097A1 discloses about a safety gap filler which is provided on an edge of a railway platform which is adjacent to tracks so as to minimize a gap between the platform and a train. The safety gap filler of the present invention includes a fastening base body, which is attached to the edge of the platform in a direction parallel to the tracks, and support bars, which protrude predetermined lengths from the surface of the fastening base body towards the tracks at positions spaced apart from each other at regular intervals. Each support bar is inclined at a predetermined angle with respect to the fastening base body in a direction in which the train travels, so that the support bars are elastically brought into sliding contact with the sidewall of the train.
[0005] CN116198548A discloses about a railway platform gap filling device, and particularly relates to the technical field of railways, the railway platform gap filling device comprises connecting pieces, the connecting pieces are connected with storage pieces, the storage pieces are connected with filling pieces, the filling pieces are air bags, the air bags are communicated with an inflation structure through inflation pipes, and the connecting pieces are connected in sequence; the filling frame is fixed below the eve of the platform through the connecting piece, the filling piece is the air bag, the filling air bag is communicated with the inflation structure, after a vehicle stops, the inflation structure supplies air to the air bag to enable the air bag to stretch, the air bag is folded before the vehicle leaves the station, falling objects can be borne, picking is convenient, and train operation is not affected.
[0006] Conventionally, many systems have been developed that are capable of providing a pathway for filling the gap between the train and the railway platform for assisting in train boarding. However, these existing systems lacks in dynamically adjusting the height and the length of the pathway as per the height of the train. Additionally, the existing systems also lacks in lifting and supporting the mobility aids and fails to assist passengers with limited mobility in boarding the train.
[0007] In order to overcome the aforementioned drawbacks, there exists a need in the art to develop a system that requires to be capable of providing an adjustable pathway that dynamically adjust its height and length as per the height of the train and the gap between the train and the railway platform in order to fill the gap between the train and the railway platform to provide safe, efficient, and comfortable boarding for the passengers. In addition, the developed system also needs to indicate train arrivals, departures and safety warnings to the passengers during travel.
OBJECTS OF THE INVENTION
[0008] The principal object of the present invention is to overcome the disadvantages of the prior art.
[0009] An object of the present invention is to develop a system that is capable of providing a retractable pathway for railway terminals that assist passengers while boarding into the train by filling the gap between the railway platform and the train door, thereby ensuring smooth and safe boarding with minimal efforts.
[0010] Another object of the present invention is to develop a system that is capable of enhancing passenger safety and comfort by detecting arrival of a train and position of the train’s door and automatically adjust the height and position of the pathway, ensuring seamless accessibility for all passengers.
[0011] Yet another object of the present invention is to develop a system that is capable of assisting passengers with limited mobility in boarding the train by detecting the presence of mobility aid and accordingly lifting the mobility aid.
[0012] The foregoing and other objects, features, and advantages of the present invention will become readily apparent upon further review of the following detailed description of the preferred embodiment as illustrated in the accompanying drawings.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0013] The present invention relates to a safety and accessibility enhancement retractable pathway system for railway terminals that provides assistance to the passengers in boarding the train at a railway terminal by providing a pathway or ramp to the passengers that dynamically adjust its height and position as per the position and height of the train door.
[0014] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a safety and accessibility enhancement retractable pathway system for railway terminals, comprises of a plurality of platforms developed to be installed at varying distances across a railway terminal, each of the platform is made from a rubberized material and includes grooves for improved traction and reducing risk of slipping for passengers, an artificial intelligence-based imaging unit integrated in the platform and coupled with a proximity sensor for detecting arrival of a train and position of the train’s door relative to the platform, a motorized slider arranged on a front portion of the platform provide translation to a sloped member arranged on the slider to deploy the member for facilitating smooth passenger boarding, a LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) sensor embedded in the platform determine gap between the platform and train, a knife arrangement having a rotatable unit linked to a shaft attached with the sloped member for adjusting vertical height and alignment of the sloped member to match height of the train’s entrance for ensuring safe and seamless boarding, a U-shaped frame positioned along sides of the sloped member and coupled to a hydraulic piston and motorized ball-and-socket joint that work in synchronization for lifting and supporting the aids to assist passengers with limited mobility in boarding the train, plurality of LEDs (Light Emitting Diodes) arranged along edges of the platform for indicating train arrivals, departures and safety warnings to the passengers according to a pre-programmed data regarding color of lights relative to the indications.
[0015] According to another embodiment of the present invention, the proposed system further comprises of a piezoelectric unit coupled with multiple FSR (Force Sensitive Sensors) is arranged on the platform for detecting contact of passenger’s feet and the mobility aids on the platform for ensuring smooth interaction with the platform, plurality of hinged flaps arranged on corners of the platform for collecting debris detected by the imaging unit, that is extracted to a collection chamber via a vacuum unit installed on the platform, plurality of air blowers installed along edges of the platform that provides air onto the surface in view of drying wet surfaces for maintaining hygiene and comfort on the platform during adverse weather conditions, the piston and ball and socket joints provide adjustable lifting force for various mobility aids, by means of detected weight of the aids by an embedded weight sensor, thereby ensuring safe, smooth boarding for the passengers with mobility issues, a Wi-Fi (Wireless Fidelity) module enables remote management by station authorities for real-time operational monitoring, the system updates, and data upload, the sloped member is extendable via a drawer arrangement to adjust length, height, and position of the sloped member in response to varying train door heights, and a battery is configured with the system for providing a continuous power supply to electronically powered components associated with the system.
[0016] While the invention has been described and shown with particular reference to the preferred embodiment, it will be apparent that variations might be possible that would fall within the scope of the present invention.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0017] These and other features, aspects, and advantages of the present invention will become better understood with regard to the following description, appended claims, and accompanying drawings where:
Figure 1 illustrates an isometric view of a safety and accessibility enhancement retractable pathway system for railway terminals.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0018] The following description includes the preferred best mode of one embodiment of the present invention. It will be clear from this description of the invention that the invention is not limited to these illustrated embodiments but that the invention also includes a variety of modifications and embodiments thereto. Therefore, the present description should be seen as illustrative and not limiting. While the invention is susceptible to various modifications and alternative constructions, it should be understood, that there is no intention to limit the invention to the specific form disclosed, but, on the contrary, the invention is to cover all modifications, alternative constructions, and equivalents falling within the spirit and scope of the invention as defined in the claims.
[0019] In any embodiment described herein, the open-ended terms "comprising," "comprises,” and the like (which are synonymous with "including," "having” and "characterized by") may be replaced by the respective partially closed phrases "consisting essentially of," consists essentially of," and the like or the respective closed phrases "consisting of," "consists of, the like.
[0020] As used herein, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” designate both the singular and the plural, unless expressly stated to designate the singular only.
[0021] The present invention relates to a safety and accessibility enhancement retractable pathway system for railway terminals that is capable of providing a retractable pathway or ramp to be installed across a railway terminal that automatically fill the gap between the pathway and train by determining the gap, for providing easy boarding to the passengers into the train. Additionally, the proposed system is capable of assisting passengers with limited mobility in boarding the train by lifting their mobility aid.
[0022] Referring to Figure 1, an isometric view of a safety and accessibility enhancement retractable pathway system for railway terminals is illustrated, comprising plurality of platforms 101, an artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 102 integrated in the platform, a motorized slider 103 arranged on a front portion of the platform, a sloped member 104 arranged on the slider 103, a knife arrangement 105 attached with the sloped member 104, a U-shaped frame 106 positioned along sides of the sloped member 104 and coupled to a hydraulic piston 107 and a motorized ball-and-socket joint 108, plurality of LEDs 109 (Light Emitting Diodes) arranged along edges of the platform, plurality of hinged flaps 110 arranged on corners of the platform, a vacuum unit 111 installed on the platform and connected to a collection chamber 112 arranged on the platform, plurality of air blowers 113 installed along edges of the platform, and a drawer arrangement 114 integrated with the member 104.
[0023] The system disclosed herein comprises of multiple platforms 101 (ranging from 4 to 6 in numbers) developed to be installed at varying distances throughout a railway terminal. These platforms 101 are precisely positioned to align with different train doors and accommodate various train lengths, ensuring accessibility for all passengers. Each platform in the system is made from a rubberized material that provides durability and flexibility. The surface of the platform features grooves, which enhance traction for passengers, particularly in wet or slippery conditions and significantly reduces the risk of slipping or falling, ensuring a safer boarding and alighting experience for all users.
[0024] After installation of the platforms 101, a user is required to activate the system manually by pressing a button installed on each of the platform and linked with an inbuilt microcontroller associated with the system. The button is a type of switch that is internally connected with the system via multiple circuits that upon pressing by the user, the circuits get closed and starts conduction of electricity that tends to activate the system and vice versa.
[0025] After activation of the system, the microcontroller generates a command to actuate an artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 102 integrated into each of the platform to work in synchronization with a proximity sensor configured with each platform for detecting arrival of a train and position of the train’s door, relative to the platform. The proximity sensor used herein is preferably an ultrasonic proximity sensor that uses ultrasonic waves to detect the arrival of the train. The ultrasonic proximity sensor typically emits ultrasonic waves towards the train, the ultrasonic waves hit the train and bounce back to the sensor’s receiver. The receiver of the ultrasonic proximity sensor is sensitive to the emitted ultrasonic waves and listens for the reflected waves. When the emitted ultrasonic waves are received by the receiver the proximity sensor sends the data to the microcontroller which processes and analyzes the acquired data for detecting the presence of the train.
[0026] Upon successful detection of the train, the imaging unit 102 capture and processes multiple images in proximity to the platform to identify the exact position of the train’s doors relative to the platform. The imaging unit 102 comprises of a high-resolution camera lens, digital camera sensor and a processor, wherein the lens captures multiple images from different angles and perspectives in vicinity of the platform with the help of digital camera sensor for providing comprehensive coverage of the terminal.
[0027] The captured images then go through pre-processing steps by the processor integrated with the imaging unit 102. The processor carries out a sequence of image processing operation including pre-processing, feature extraction and classification in order to enhance the image quality, which includes adjusting brightness and contrast and removing any distortion or noise. The pre-processed images are transmitted to the microcontroller linked with the processor in the form of electrical signals.
[0028] The microcontroller processes the received signals from the imaging unit 102 in order to detect position of the train’s door, relative to the platform. Based on which the microcontroller actuates a motorized slider 103 arranged on a front portion of the platform to provide translation to a sloped member 104 arranged on the slider 103 in forward direction for aligning the member 104 with the train’s entrance for facilitating smooth passenger boarding. The slider 103 used herein consists of a sliding-rail and multiple rolling members which are integrated with a step motor. On actuation, the step motor rotates the rolling members in order to provide rolling motion to the members which results in sliding of the members and provide translation to the sloped member 104 along the slider 103 in order to deploy the member 104 for facilitating smooth passenger boarding.
[0029] Simultaneously, with the translation of the member 104, the microcontroller in association with a LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) sensor embedded in the platform, determine gap between the platform and train. The LiDAR sensor sends out rapid laser pulses in a sweeping motion towards the train for determining gap between the platform and train. These pulses travel through the air and interact with the train. When the laser pulses encounter the train, the laser bounces off from the surface of the train. The LiDAR sensor precisely measures the time it takes for these laser pulses to travel to the surface of the train and back to the sensor. This data is processed by the microcontroller to determine the gap between the platform and the train.
[0030] Based on the precise measurements provided by the LiDAR sensor, the microcontroller processes the data to determine the required vertical adjustment of the sloped member 104 to match the height of the train's entrance and accordingly actuates a knife arrangement 105 equipped with a rotatable unit connected to a shaft attached with the sloped member 104, for adjusting vertical height and alignment of the sloped member 104 to match height of the train’s entrance. Upon receiving actuation command from the microcontroller, the rotatable unit activates and start rotating the attached shaft. This rotational movement translates into vertical or angular displacement of the sloped member 104, which is connected to the shaft's free end for adjusting vertical height and alignment of the sloped member 104 to match height of the train’s entrance.
[0031] Upon aligning the vertical height and alignment of the member 104 with the train’s entrance, the microcontroller actuates a drawer arrangement 114 integrated with the member 104 to extend or retract the sloped member 104 for adjusting the length and position of the sloped member 104 based on the varying train door heights and distances, as detected by the imaging unit 102. The drawer arrangement 114 consists of a motor, hollow compartment and multiple compartments that are connected with sliders.
[0032] Upon actuation by the microcontroller, an electric current pass through the motor of the drawer arrangement 114 and energized the motor. The energized motor further actuates the compartments which are initially at the stowed condition to move in a successive manner within the hollow compartment and extends/ retracts length of the compartments. Simultaneously, each of the compartments having a fixed groove track, wherein upon actuation of the slider, the motor of the slider gets energized and provides a movement to the compartment to move in a linear direction on the groove track of the successive compartment as directed by the microcontroller to provide extension to the sloped member 104 up-to a pre-defined length to adjust the length and position of the member 104 for effectively bridging the gap and providing a stable and secure boarding pathway to the passengers.
[0033] A U-shaped frame 106 is positioned along sides of the sloped member 104 to assist passengers with limited mobility who use mobility aids such as wheelchairs, walkers, or strollers. The U-shaped frame 106 is mechanically coupled to a hydraulic piston 107 and a motorized ball-and-socket joint 108. When the imaging unit 102 detects the presence of a mobility aid on the platform, the imaging unit 102 transmits this data to the microcontroller. The microcontroller processes the data and actuates the hydraulic piston 107 and the motorized ball-and-socket joint 108 in synchronization for lifting and supporting the aids to assist passengers with limited mobility in boarding the train.
[0034] The hydraulic piston 107 provides the necessary lifting force, while the ball-and-socket joint 108 offer multi-directional flexibility, ensuring smooth and stable movement of the frame 106. This mechanism allows the U-shaped frame 106 to elevate and align with the mobility aid, securely supporting the aid as the passenger moves onto the sloped member 104. The extension/ retraction of the hydraulic piston 107 is powered by a hydraulic unit linked with the piston, including an oil compressor, oil cylinders, and oil valves which works in collaboration to aid in extension and retraction of the piston.
[0035] The hydraulic unit operates by converting hydraulic pressure into mechanical motion. The mechanism consists of a cylinder with a piston inside, connected to a piston rod. On actuation, hydraulic fluid is pumped into one side of the cylinder, it pushes the piston, causing the piston rod to extend and generate linear motion. Conversely, when fluid is pumped into the other side of the cylinder, it retracts the piston rod. By controlling the flow and pressure of hydraulic fluid, the hydraulic unit extends/ retract to provide required lifting force to the mobility aids via the frame 106.
[0036] Synchronously, the ball-and-socket joint 108 provides required multi-axis rotational movement to the frame 106. The motorized ball-and-socket joint 108 used herein is a mechanical component that permits rotational and tilting movements, enabling the frame 106 to rotate on its axis. The ball-and-socket joint 108 is a coupling consisting of a ball joint securely locked within a socket joint, where the ball joint is able to move in a 360-dgree rotation within the socket thus, providing the required movement to the frame 106. The ball-and-socket joint 108 is powered by a DC (direct current) motor that is actuated by the microcontroller for providing multi-axis rotational movement to the frame 106 for lifting and supporting the aids to assist passengers with limited mobility in boarding the train.
[0037] The hydraulic piston 107 and the motorized ball-and-socket joint 108 provide adjustable lifting force for various mobility aids, as per the detected weight of the aids by an embedded weight sensor. The weight sensor used herein is a particular kind of transducer, more especially a weight transducer, which transform a mechanical force that is applied as an input, by the weight of the mobility aids, into a change in electrical resistance, which varies proportionally to the force being applied to the sensor. This change in electrical resistance is detected by the microcontroller linked with the sensor, in the form of an electrical signal.
[0038] The microcontroller processes the received signal from the weight sensor to detect the weight of the mobility aid and accordingly calculates the optimal lifting force required and direct the hydraulic piston 107 to adjust the pressure output accordingly, while the ball-and-socket joint 108 provide multi-directional alignment to ensure smooth and stable boarding for the passengers with mobility issues into the train.
[0039] The platform is equipped with a piezoelectric unit that is coupled with multiple Force Sensitive Resistors (FSRs), arranged across the platform. These sensors are designed to detect contact when a passenger’s feet or a mobility aid makes contact with the platform surface. The piezoelectric unit generates an electrical charge when pressure is applied, while the FSRs measure the intensity of the pressure which is further transferred to the microcontroller.
[0040] The microcontroller processes the received data and adjusts the alignment of the sloped member 104 accordingly. This ensures that the sloped member 104 remains in the correct position to accommodate the passenger’s or mobility aid's placement, ensuring smooth interaction with the platform.
[0041] The edges of the platform are arranged with multiple LEDs 109 (Light Emitting Diodes). These LEDs 109 are programmed to indicate important information to passengers, such as train arrivals, departures, and various safety warnings. The color and pattern of the lights are determined based on a pre-programmed set of data that correlates specific colors to particular events or warnings. For example, the LEDs 109 may glow in green to signal that a train is approaching or has arrived, red to indicate safety alerts or potential hazards, and yellow or blue for departures or to provide boarding instructions. These visual signals are crucial in ensuring clear communication with passengers, especially in crowded environments, by providing immediate, easily recognizable indicators.
[0042] The microcontroller by means of the imaging unit 102, continuously scans the platform surface for any accumulated debris, such as dirt, trash, or litter. Upon successful detection of debris on the platform, the microcontroller actuates multiple hinged flaps 110 (ranging from 4 to 6 in numbers) arranged on corners of the platform to collect the debris. The flaps 110 are mounted on hinges that integrates an electric motor with a traditional hinge mechanism to enable controlled, automated rotational movement of the flaps 110 around a fixed axis.
[0043] The hinge joint comprises of a pair of leaf that are screwed with the surface of the flaps 110 and the platform. The leafs are connected with each other by means of a cylindrical member integrated with a shaft coupled with a DC (Direct Current) motor to provide required movement to the hinge. The rotation of the shaft in clockwise and anti-clockwise direction provides required tilting movement to the hinge joints, that in turn tilt the flaps 110 for collecting the debris.
[0044] Once the debris are collected, the microcontroller actuates a vacuum unit 111 installed on the platform to extract the collected debris from the platform surface and collect the debris into a collection chamber 112 connected to the vacuum unit 111 and installed on the platform. The vacuum unit 111 consist of a suction pump, a hollow pipe, and a suction catheter for extracting the debris from the platform. The pump generates a negative pressure, creating a vacuum in the unit. The pipe connects the pump to the collection chamber 112, where the extracted debris is collected. The suction catheter is used to reach the desired area for extracting debris. Upon actuation of the vacuum unit 111 by the microcontroller, the pump creates a pressure differential, enabling the debris to travel through the pipe and gets collected into the collection chamber 112.
[0045] The microcontroller by means of the imaging unit 102, continuously scans the platform surface to detect the presence of wet surfaces or presence of water on the platform. Upon successful detection of wet surface, the microcontroller actuates multiple air blowers 113 (ranging from 4 to 6 in numbers) installed along edges of the platform to blow air onto the platform surface to dry wet areas. The air blowers 113 used herein consists of a motor, fan blades, an air intake, and an outlet nozzle. When the microcontroller activates the blowers 113, the motor drives the fan blades to rotate at high speed, drawing air through the intake. The blades push this air towards the outlet nozzle, creating a focused stream of air. This air is then directed towards the wet areas of the platform, in order to dry the platform quickly and preventing the formation of puddles or slippery spots that pose a hazard to passengers.
[0046] Further, the imaging unit 102 and the microcontroller are encrypted with multiple machine learning protocols to predict potential hazards, such as obstacles or unsafe conditions, by analyzing real-time data captured by the imaging unit 102. The machine learning protocols process visual data from the platform and surrounding environment to identify patterns, anomalies, or emerging risks, and detect situations where passengers may be at risk, such as standing too close to the platform edge or in areas where the train is about to arrive.
[0047] In case a potential hazard or unsafe condition is detected, the microcontroller send necessary notifications to station authorities by means of a Wi-Fi (Wireless Fidelity) module for alerting them to take immediate action. The Wi-Fi (Wireless Fidelity) module also facilitates remote management by station authorities. The module enables real-time operational monitoring, allowing personnel to oversee the system's functionality and performance remotely. The Wi-Fi module ensures that authorities access live data from the system, such as platform conditions, train arrivals, and the status of the safety features.
[0048] The data upload capability provided by the Wi-Fi module allows critical information such as performance metrics, sensor data, and system logs to be transmitted to a central server. This data is further analyzed for operational insights, predictive maintenance, or for compliance with safety regulations.
[0049] Lastly, a battery is installed within the system which is connected to the microcontroller that supplies current to all the electrically powered components that needs an amount of electric power to perform their functions and operation in an efficient manner. The battery utilized here, is generally a dry battery which is made up of Lithium-ion material that gives the system a long-lasting as well as an efficient DC (Direct Current) current which helps every component to function properly in an efficient manner. As the system is battery operated and do not need any electrical voltage for functioning. Hence the presence of battery leads to the portability of the system i.e., user is able to place as well as moves the system from one place to another as per the requirements.
[0050] The present invention works best in the following manner, where multiple platforms 101 as disclosed in the invention are developed to be installed at varying distances across the railway terminal. Each of the platform is made from the rubberized material and includes grooves for improved traction and reducing risk of slipping for passengers. The artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 102 coupled with the proximity sensor detect arrival of the train and position of the train’s door relative to the platform. Further, the motorized slider 103 provide translation to the sloped member 104 to deploy the member 104 for facilitating smooth passenger boarding. Simultaneously, the LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) sensor determine gap between the platform and train. Accordingly, the knife arrangement 105 adjusts vertical height and alignment of the sloped member 104 to match height of the train’s entrance and synchronously the drawer arrangement 114 extend the member 104 to adjust length and position of the sloped member 104 in response to varying train door heights for ensuring safe and seamless boarding. Afterwards, the piezoelectric unit coupled with multiple FSR (Force Sensitive Sensors) detect contact of passenger’s feet and the requirement of mobility aids on the platform. Accordingly, the U-shaped frame 106 coupled to the hydraulic piston 107 and motorized ball-and-socket joint 108 lift and provide supporting aids to assist passengers with limited mobility in boarding the train. Multiple LEDs 109 (Light Emitting Diodes) indicate train arrivals, departures and safety warnings to the passengers according to the pre-programmed data regarding color of lights relative to the indications for ensuring smooth interaction with the platform. Further, multiple hinged flaps 110 collect debris that is extracted to the collection chamber 112 via the vacuum unit 111. Multiple air blowers 113 provide air onto the surface in view of drying wet surfaces for maintaining hygiene and comfort on the platform during adverse weather conditions. Furthermore, the Wi-Fi (Wireless Fidelity) module enables remote management by station authorities for real-time operational monitoring, system updates, and data upload.
[0051] Although the field of the invention has been described herein with limited reference to specific embodiments, this description is not meant to be construed in a limiting sense. Various modifications of the disclosed embodiments, as well as alternate embodiments of the invention, will become apparent to persons skilled in the art upon reference to the description of the invention. , Claims:1) A safety and accessibility enhancement retractable pathway system for railway terminals, comprising:
i) a plurality of platforms 101 developed to be installed at varying distances across a railway terminal, wherein each of said platform is made from a rubberized material and includes grooves for improved traction and reducing risk of slipping for passengers;
ii) an artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 102 integrated in said platform and coupled with a proximity sensor for detecting arrival of a train and position of said train’s door, relative to said platform, wherein a microcontroller is linked with said imaging unit 102 for processing said arrival and door’s position, to actuate a motorized slider 103 arranged on a front portion of said platform, to provide translation to a sloped member 104 arranged on said slider 103, to deploy said member 104 for facilitating smooth passenger boarding;
iii) a LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) sensor embedded in said platform for determining gap between said platform and train, based on which, said microcontroller actuates a knife arrangement 105 having a rotatable unit linked to a shaft attached with said sloped member 104, for adjusting vertical height and alignment of said sloped member 104 to match height of said train’s entrance, thereby ensuring safe boarding;
iv) a U-shaped frame 106 positioned along sides of said sloped member 104, coupled to a hydraulic piston 107 and a motorized ball-and-socket joint 108, wherein in case said imaging unit 102 detects a mobility aid over said platform, said microcontroller actuates said piston and ball and socket joint 108 in synchronized manner, for lifting and supporting said aids to assist passengers with limited mobility in boarding said train;
v) plurality of LEDs 109 (Light Emitting Diodes) arranged along edges of said platform for indicating train arrivals, departures and safety warnings to said passengers, according to a pre-programmed data regarding color of lights relative to said indications, wherein a piezoelectric unit coupled with multiple FSR (Force Sensitive Sensors), arranged on said platform for detecting contact of passenger’s feet and said mobility aids on said platform, in accordance to which said microcontroller regulates alignment of said member 104, for ensuring smooth interaction with said platform; and
vi) plurality of hinged flaps 110 arranged on corners of said platform for collecting debris detected by said imaging unit 102, that is extracted to a collection chamber 112 via a vacuum unit 111 installed on said platform, wherein plurality of air blowers 113 installed along edges of said platform, that provides air onto said surface, in view of drying wet surfaces, for maintaining hygiene and comfort on said platform, particularly during adverse weather conditions.
2) The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein said imaging unit 102 and said microcontroller are encrypted with multiple machine learning protocols to predict potential hazards, track passenger positions, and trigger necessary notifications for enhanced safety at said railway terminal.
3) The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein said piston and ball and socket joint 108 provide adjustable lifting force for various mobility aids, by means of detected weight of said aids by an embedded weight sensor, thereby ensuring safe, smooth boarding for said passengers with mobility issues.
4) The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein a Wi-Fi (Wireless Fidelity) module enables remote management by station authorities for real-time operational monitoring, said system updates, and data upload.
5) The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein said sloped member 104 is extendable via a drawer arrangement 114 to adjust length, height, and position of said sloped member 104, in response to varying train door heights, as detected by said imaging unit 102.
6) The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein a battery is configured with said system for providing a continuous power supply to electronically powered components associated with said system.
| # | Name | Date |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | 202521011097-STATEMENT OF UNDERTAKING (FORM 3) [10-02-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-02-10 |
| 2 | 202521011097-REQUEST FOR EXAMINATION (FORM-18) [10-02-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-02-10 |
| 3 | 202521011097-REQUEST FOR EARLY PUBLICATION(FORM-9) [10-02-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-02-10 |
| 4 | 202521011097-PROOF OF RIGHT [10-02-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-02-10 |
| 5 | 202521011097-POWER OF AUTHORITY [10-02-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-02-10 |
| 6 | 202521011097-FORM-9 [10-02-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-02-10 |
| 7 | 202521011097-FORM FOR SMALL ENTITY(FORM-28) [10-02-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-02-10 |
| 8 | 202521011097-FORM 18 [10-02-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-02-10 |
| 9 | 202521011097-FORM 1 [10-02-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-02-10 |
| 10 | 202521011097-FIGURE OF ABSTRACT [10-02-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-02-10 |
| 11 | 202521011097-EVIDENCE FOR REGISTRATION UNDER SSI(FORM-28) [10-02-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-02-10 |
| 12 | 202521011097-EVIDENCE FOR REGISTRATION UNDER SSI [10-02-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-02-10 |
| 13 | 202521011097-EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTION(S) [10-02-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-02-10 |
| 14 | 202521011097-DRAWINGS [10-02-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-02-10 |
| 15 | 202521011097-DECLARATION OF INVENTORSHIP (FORM 5) [10-02-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-02-10 |
| 16 | 202521011097-COMPLETE SPECIFICATION [10-02-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-02-10 |
| 17 | Abstract.jpg | 2025-02-21 |
| 18 | 202521011097-FORM-26 [03-06-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-06-03 |