Description:FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates to a gateway for public vehicles that is capable of improving passenger accessibility, safety, and boarding efficiency at transport depots. Additionally, the invention particularly pertains to entry structures integrated with public vehicles that streamlines passenger movement, luggage transfer, and real-time communication during embarkation and disembarkation processes.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] Public transportation systems are widely used across urban and rural areas, accommodating large volumes of passengers daily. Efficient boarding and deboarding are essential for minimizing delays and ensuring passenger safety. However, issues such as gaps between vehicles and platforms, lack of real-time seat availability information, and poor management of passenger flow often result in discomfort, accidents, or congestion. Inadequate support for luggage handling, minimal assistance for individuals with mobility challenges, and absence of responsive infrastructure further reduce the overall efficiency, safety, and inclusivity of public transport operations, especially during peak hours or emergency scenarios.

[0003] Traditionally, passengers board and exit public vehicles using fixed staircases or ramps that do not adjust according to vehicle height, platform elevation, or passenger accessibility requirements. Manual ticket verification, limited seat guidance, and absence of dynamic visual or audio alerts often lead to confusion, overcrowding, and delays. Luggage is typically carried manually without dedicated guidance or support, increasing the risk of damage or misplacement. Moreover, there is little integration of intelligent technologies to assist with real-time passenger information, safety alerts, or efficient transfer processes. These limitations indicate a significant need for an adaptive, intelligent, and user-friendly boarding interface that improves accessibility, operational fluidity, and commuter satisfaction.

[0004] US10835428B2 discloses improved passenger access and suspension systems for passenger buses, and controllers configured for use therewith; and passenger buses incorporating such systems and controllers. Integrated access ramp and suspension systems provide improvements in fully- or semi-automatic ramp deployment, including minimum-grade modes, as well as ride control and automated suspension and ramp configuration in specified geographic locations or within specified proximities of structures.

[0005] US4827548A relates to an extendible and retractable ramp device for a vehicle particularly concerned with the loading and unloading of a handicapped person and which device particularly includes a power actuating mechanism disposed within the vehicle in such a way as to both protect the mechanism from damage and further including a track mechanism for lifting one end of the ramp to the vehicle floor level when the ramp is in its extended position.

[0006] Conventionally, many systems are used for public transport access, comprise basic steps, fixed ramps, or manually operated platforms that offer limited adaptability to varying passenger needs or vehicle configurations. These traditional arrangements often fail to accommodate individuals with disabilities, heavy luggage, or urgent evacuation scenarios, and typically lack integration with intelligent assistance features or real-time communication for improved efficiency and safety.

[0007] In order to overcome the aforementioned drawbacks, there exists a need in the art to develop a gateway that requires to provide dynamic access assistance to a wide range of passengers, accommodates varying boarding requirements, ensures enhanced safety and ease of movement, and offers improved adaptability through intelligent features that support seamless operation, accessibility, and real-time user interaction.

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 gateway that facilitates safe, comfortable, and efficient boarding and deboarding of passengers.

[0010] Another object of the present invention is to develop a gateway that enhances accessibility for individuals with mobility challenges, senior citizens, and those carrying luggage or accompanied by children.

[0011] Yet another object of the present invention is to develop a gateway that enables controlled entry and exit of passengers in a structured manner to prevent crowding and improve safety.

[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 gateway for public vehicles that is capable of enabling safe, comfortable, and inclusive boarding and deboarding experience for passengers including differently abled individuals, senior citizens, and general commuters, reducing manual effort and enhancing accessibility in synchronization with public vehicle movement.

[0014] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a gateway for public vehicles, comprises of a base by means of hinge configured to be positioned near a vehicle door for forming a passenger access path, a plurality of interconnected plates mounted on the base through pin joints for forming a retractable staircase that enables smooth transition between ground and vehicle floor, a plurality of extendable rods mounted below the plates for vertical adjustment of plate height, a plurality of clamps provided at respective ends of base for engaging vehicle floor and locking position, a hydraulic actuator configured with the clamps for enabling firm attachment and detachment, a plurality of inverted U-shaped extendable railings disposed laterally for providing physical support to passengers while climbing or descending, a scanner mounted for recognizing passenger presence or category for operational regulation, and a communication unit for transmitting real-time notifications to authorized personnel or passengers via connected wireless devices.

[0015] According to another embodiment of the present invention, the invention further comprises of a holographic projection unit mounted to visually display directional or instructional cues above the structure for enhanced guidance, a display panel installed to show seat plan, zone allocation, and assistance details, a seat planning module associated with memory and processing components to retrieve or update seating data in real time based on vehicle configuration or passenger information, a plurality of ball and socket joints integrated with extendable rods and railings for enabling angular adaptability during deployment, a push button mounted for manual triggering of operational deployment of base during emergency by passenger or staff.

[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 base associated with a gateway for public vehicles; and
Figure 2 illustrates a perspective view of the gateway installed with public vehicles.

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 gateway for public vehicles that is capable of facilitating safe and efficient boarding and deboarding of passengers, managing passenger flow, assisting with luggage handling, and enhancing accessibility and communication at various public transport stops.

[0022] Referring to Figure 1 and 2, an isometric view of a base associated with a gateway for public vehicles and a perspective view of the gateway installed with the public vehicles are illustrated, respectively, comprising a base 101 attached with an entrance of a public vehicle 201 by means of a hinge 202, a camera 203 installed at the entrance of the vehicle 201, a plurality of clamps 102 attached with an end of the base 101 by means of hydraulic actuators 103, a projection unit 104 mounted with the base 101, a speaker 105 installed on the base 101, a luggage conveyor 106 comprises a first conveyor 106a arranged toward a first side of the base 101 and a second conveyor 106b arranged toward a second side of the base 101.

[0023] Figure 1 and 2 further illustrates a retractable staircase 107 comprises of a plurality of plates 108 connected with one another by means of pin joints 109, the plates 108 supported on the base 101 by means of a plurality of extendable rods 110, the plates 108 are connected with rods 110 and the rods 110 are connected with the base 101 by means of ball and socket joints 111, a plurality of electromagnets 112 are arranged along edges of the plates 108, an inverted U-shaped extendable railing 113 provide along each lateral part of the base 101, a scanner 114 installed with the base 101, a display panel 204 mounted along an interior and installed along an exterior of the vehicle 201, a holographic projection unit 115 installed with the base 101, a push button 205 installed at the entrance of the vehicle 201.

[0024] The gateway disclosed herein comprises of a base 101 attached with an entrance of a public vehicle 201 by means of a hinge 202 to bridge a gap between the entrance of the vehicle 201 and a surface of a depot. The base 101 comprises a reinforced structural frame formed from high-tensile lightweight aluminum alloy to ensure strength, corrosion resistance, and ease of deployment. The internal body of the base 101 accommodates routing channels for mechanical and electrical elements without compromising structural integrity. The base 101 is sectioned to allow modular folding, enabling compact retraction and secure locking into position when deployed.

[0025] A camera 203 integrated with a processor installed at the entrance of the vehicle 201 to detect number of passengers to accordingly enable actuation of the hinge 202 to deploy the base 101 for climbing of passengers. The camera 203 integrated at the vehicle 201 entrance functions as an intelligent imaging unit designed to detect and count passengers. Internally, it comprises a high-resolution CMOS sensor paired with a wide-angle lens to capture real-time video of the boarding area. The captured visual data is processed by an onboard processor, which utilizes embedded object detection protocols to identify and count human figures. An infrared sensor included to enhance visibility in dim conditions. The processed data is transmitted to a microcontroller, which then actuate the hinge 202 based on passenger presence.

[0026] The hinge 202 operates as a motor-actuated pivoting assembly that enables controlled deployment and retraction of the base 101. Internally, the hinge 202 consists of a high-torque electric motor coupled with a gear assembly housed in a reinforced steel casing. The gear assembly includes a worm gear to provide precise angular control and load-bearing capacity. A rotary encoder is integrated to monitor the hinge’s angle in real-time. Bearings and bushings are incorporated to reduce friction and ensure smooth rotation. The hinge 202 is also equipped with a torsion spring to assist in weight balancing and minimize strain on the motor during base 101 movement.

[0027] Further, a plurality of clamps 102 is attached with a distal end of the base 101 for gripping onto surface of the depot to secure the base 101. The clamps 102 consist of gripping jaws, a threaded rod, and a sliding bracket. When activated, the sliding bracket moves along the rod, forcing the jaws to extend outward and press firmly onto the depot surface. This grip provides additional stability to the deployed base 101. The clamps 102 retract when the base 101 is folded back, ensuring smooth disengagement from the surface. Their motion is precisely controlled by the connected hydraulic actuators 103.

[0028] Each hydraulic actuator 103 includes a sealed cylinder filled with fluid, a piston, and an inlet-outlet valve. When pressurized fluid is directed into the cylinder via an inlet, it forces the piston to move outward, which in turn drives the clamp’s sliding bracket to open or close the jaws. Reversing the fluid flow causes the piston to retract. The actuators 103 provides smooth, controlled motion and high force output, enabling the clamps 102 to grip or release the surface of the depot securely and reliably.

[0029] A projection unit 104 is mounted with the base 101 to project an image onto the depot surface for indicating the area to be occupied by the base 101 upon deployment. The projection unit 104 contains a high-intensity LED (Light Emitting Diode) light source directed onto a micro-mirror chip that reflects light through a projection lens to display a visual boundary on the depot surface. The projection unit 104 includes a graphic rendering processor that generates a predefined visual pattern indicating the area to be occupied by the deployed base 101. Integrated motion sensors ensure projection activates only during deployment. The housing is shock-resistant and sealed to protect optical elements from dust and vibrations during vehicle 201 movement and base 101 actuation.

[0030] During deployment, the microcontroller activates an ultrasonic sensor embedded with the base 101 to detect the presence of people under the base 101. The ultrasonic sensor operates by emitting high-frequency sound waves through a piezoelectric transducer. Internally, the sensor consists of a transmitter and a receiver; the transmitter generates ultrasonic pulses, which travel through the air and reflect back upon hitting a person beneath the base 101. The receiver detects the reflected signal, and the internal timing circuit measures the time delay between emission and reception. This time is processed by the microcontroller to calculate the distance of the object.

[0031] In case, any person is detected within a predefined threshold, a signal is sent to the microcontroller, then the microcontroller actuates a speaker 105 installed with the base 101 to generate an audible warning vacating the indicated area. The speaker 105 consists of a diaphragm attached to a voice coil suspended within a magnetic field created by a permanent magnet. When an electrical audio signal generated, it is sent to the voice coil, which creates a varying magnetic field that interacts with the static magnetic field of the magnet. This causes the coil and attached diaphragm to vibrate back and forth, producing sound waves. The speaker’s enclosure includes acoustic dampening to focus sound direction and prevent distortion, ensuring clear audible warnings in outdoor depot environments.

[0032] A luggage conveyor 106 comprising a first conveyor 106a arranges towards a first side of the base 101 to facilitate conveying of luggage into the vehicle 201 and a second conveyor 106b arranged towards a second side of the base 101 to facilitate conveying of luggage out of the vehicle 201. The luggage conveyor 106 consists of a continuous rubber belt looped around two rollers out of which one driven by an electric motor and the other acting as an idler. The motor is connected to a gearbox that controls the speed and direction of belt movement. Beneath the belt, a series of support rollers metal bed reduces friction and stabilizes the load. Sensors are embedded to detect luggage presence and regulate motor activation. The luggage conveyor 106 is enclosed within a reinforced frame to ensure structural integrity and safe luggage transfer.

[0033] A retractable staircase 107 provides along a central portion of the base 101 to enable climbing of passengers. The retractable staircase 107 comprises of a plurality of plates 108 connected with one another by means of pin joints 109. Each plate in the staircase 107 is a rigid panel, typically made of lightweight metal or reinforced polymer. The plates 108 are connected end-to-end using pin joints 109, which allow rotational movement between adjacent plates 108. Internally, these pin joints 109 consist of cylindrical metal pins inserted through aligned holes in the overlapping ends of two plates 108, allowing them to pivot during deployment or retraction. This configuration enables the entire staircase 107 to fold and unfold smoothly like a mechanical linkage.

[0034] Furthermore, the plates 108 are vertically supported by means of a plurality of extendable rods 110 on the base 101. The extendable rods 110 operated by a pneumatic unit function using compressed air to generate linear motion. Internally, each rod consists of a piston housed within a sealed cylindrical chamber. When compressed air is directed into the chamber through a control valve, it pushes the piston forward, causing the rod to extend. Reversing the airflow causes the piston to retract, pulling the rod back. The movement is guided by internal seals and bearings to ensure smooth, leak-proof operation. A solenoid valve controls the airflow direction based on signals from the microcontroller, enabling precise and responsive adjustment of the staircase 107 height.

[0035] The plates 108 are connected with rods 110 and the rods 110 are connected with the base 101 by means of ball and socket joints 111. The Ball and socket joints 111 function as multi-directional connectors that allow rotational and angular movement between two components. Internally, the joints 111 consist of a metal spherical ball fixed to the end of one component, and a hollow hemispherical socket attached to the adjoining part. The ball fits snugly within the socket, allowing it to rotate freely in multiple directions while remaining securely enclosed. A lubricated liner bushing inside the socket minimizes friction and wear. These joints 111 enable smooth, flexible movement ideal for adjusting the orientation of the extendable rods 110 and hence the plates 108.

[0036] For a secure interfacing of the plates 108 to deploy as a stair case, a plurality of electromagnets 112 is arranged along edges of the plates 108. electromagnets 112 work by converting electrical energy into magnetic force through electromagnetic induction. Internally, each electromagnet consists of a coil of insulated copper wire wound around a ferromagnetic core (usually iron). When an electric current flows through the coil, it generates a magnetic field that magnetizes the core, allowing the electromagnet to attract and hold onto metallic objects such as adjacent staircase 107 plates 108. When the current is turned off, the magnetic field collapses, deactivating the attraction. The electromagnets 112 enable secure, switchable locking of the staircase 107 plates 108.

[0037] An inverted U-shaped extendable railing 113 provided along each lateral part of the base 101 to provide a gripping surface to passengers. The extendable railing 113 operates through a telescopic sliding means combined with locking joints for stability. Internally, each vertical leg of the U-shaped frame is composed of multiple nested metal tubes of decreasing diameter, allowing them to slide within one another. A spring-loaded actuator inside the base 101 of the vertical posts pushes the inner tubes upward during deployment. Once fully extended, locking pins engage automatically to hold the railing 113 at full height. The top horizontal segment of the U-shape unfolds into position through a hinged connection, snapping securely onto the extended vertical posts. During retraction, the locking means is released, allowing the tubes to collapse neatly into the base 101 for compact storage.

[0038] Further, a scanner 114 mounted on the base 101 to scan tickets of passengers to accordingly cause a communication unit connected with a control unit to notify the passenger regarding the seat number and position of the seat as per the scanned ticket. The scanner 114 typically uses optical or Radio-Frequency Identification (RFID)-based technology to read passenger tickets. Internally, for optical barcodes or QR codes, it consists of a light source, a lens, and an image sensor. When a ticket is placed near the scanner 114, the light source illuminates it, and the reflected image is captured by the sensor. A built-in processor decodes the scanned pattern into digital information. The scanner 114 emits radio waves that power the RFID tag embedded in the ticket, prompting it to transmit stored data, which the scanner’s antenna captures and decodes for validation.

[0039] The communication unit includes a signal-transmitting element, a control chip, and a data memory block. The communication unit further includes a wireless transmission element configured to establish a connection with external handheld devices carried by passengers and authorities such as smartphones or wearable devices. Once the scanner 114 retrieves ticket data, the control chip cross-references the information with stored seating arrangements. Based on the match, the control chip generates a data output which is directed to the signal-transmitting element. The signal-transmitting element, such as a radio-frequency antenna or display connector, delivers the seat number and position to the passenger’s device. The communication unit also receive confirmation signals from the connected components to ensure successful information delivery to the passenger. Upon detection of unconfirmed ticket, the communication unit also alerts an authority on their devices.

[0040] In order to record the seats occupied by on-board passengers, a seat planning module configured with the control unit to determine empty seats available for upcoming depots. The seat planning module comprises a memory unit, a processing element, and a seat status input interface. The memory unit stores the layout of all seats within the vehicle 201 along with occupancy status. When the passenger scans their ticket, the input interface receives the boarding data and updates the corresponding seat status as occupied. The processing element continuously compares the stored data to identify vacant seats in real time. The module also tracks boarding and deboarding at each depot to refresh seat availability accordingly.

[0041] This information is used to update available seats and also running schedule of the vehicle 201 for reference of passengers on a display panel 204 mounted along an interior and an exterior of the vehicle 201. The display panel 204 comprises a visual output screen, a display driver circuit, and a control input interface. The screen is LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) type, which receives pixel data from the display driver. The driver is electronically connected to the control unit of the gateway, which transmits data such as running schedule, current depot, and available seat information. Upon receiving this data, the driver converts the digital signals into visual output on the screen.

[0042] A holographic projection unit 115 installed with the base 101 to display guiding visuals related to usage of the base 101 for climbing and transferring luggage. The holographic projection unit 115 includes a light source, a spatial light modulator, and an interference panel. The light source emits coherent light, typically from a laser, which passes through the spatial light modulator that encodes guiding visuals into the beam. The encoded light then strikes the interference panel, creating a 3D visual pattern in the air around the base 101. The projection presents real-time holographic visuals related to luggage placement and stair usage, enhancing passenger guidance during boarding or deboarding.

[0043] Additionally, a push button 205 installed at the entrance of the vehicle 201 which is when pressed by the passenger to indicate an emergency to cause the base 101 to be deployed at the depot. The push button 205 includes a contact plate, a spring-loaded actuator, and a signal wire internally connected to the control unit. When the passenger presses the push button 205, the contact plate is displaced, completing an electrical circuit. This action sends a low-voltage signal through the wire to the control unit installed inside the vehicle 201. Upon receiving the signal, the control unit verifies the vehicle 201 is stationed at a depot and send signal to the microcontroller to actuate the hinge 202 connected to the base 101 to deploy the base 101.

[0044] The present invention works best in the following manner, where the base 101 as disclosed in the invention is hinged to the entrance of the public vehicle 201 and remains folded when not in use. When the passengers are detected by the camera 203 integrated with the processor at the entrance, processor enables actuation of the hinge 202, causing the base 101 to unfold and bridge the gap between the vehicle 201 and the depot surface. Before deployment, the projection unit 104 mounted on the base 101 projects visual markings on the depot floor, indicating the base 101 coverage area. Simultaneously, the ultrasonic sensor embedded within the base 101 checks for presence of individuals beneath the base 101 and, upon detection, actuates the speaker 105 to generate audible warning for area clearance. Once safe, the clamps 102 attached at the base 101 end are actuated by the hydraulic actuators 103 to grip the depot surface for added stability. The luggage conveyor 106 over the base 101 begins transporting passenger belongings.

[0045] In continuation, the retractable staircase 107 is located centrally on the base 101 unfolds through the plates 108 connected by the pin joints 109 and extended using the extendable rods 110 supported by the ball and socket joints 111. The electromagnets 112 on the plate edges ensure secure interfacing during stair formation. The inverted U-shaped extendable railing 113 on either side extend to provide grip, and the scanner 114 mounted on the base 101 scans each passenger’s ticket. Upon scanning, the communication unit sends wireless notification to passenger device showing assigned seat number and location. The push button 205 near the entrance enables emergency deployment of the base 101 by sending signal to the control unit. The display panels 204 on the vehicle 201 interior and exterior exhibit live seat availability and running schedule. The seat planning module configured with the control unit logs occupied and available seats and updates data for upcoming depots. The holographic projection unit 115 installed on the base 101 projects visual instructions for luggage placement and stair use, guiding passengers during boarding and deboarding.

[0046] 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 gateway for public vehicles, comprising:

i) a base 101 attached with an entrance of a public vehicle 201 by means of a hinge 202 to bridge a gap between the entrance of the vehicle 201 and a surface of a depot;
ii) a camera 203 integrated with a processor installed at the entrance of the vehicle 201 to detect number of passengers to accordingly enable actuation of the hinge 202 to deploy the base 101 for climbing of passengers, wherein upon a completed climbing of passengers the hinge 202 is actuated to retract the base 101;
iii) a projection unit 104 mounted with the base 101 projects an image onto the depot surface indicated the area to be occupied by the base 101 upon deployment;
iv) an ultrasonic sensor embedded with the base 101 detects presence of people under the base 101 during deployment to actuate a speaker 105 installed with the base 101 to generate an audible warning vacating the indicated area;
v) a luggage conveyor 106 arranged over the base 101 to facilitate conveying of luggage in and out of the vehicle 201;
vi) a retractable staircase 107 provided along a central portion of the base 101 to enable climbing of passengers;
vii) an inverted U-shaped extendable railing 113 provided along each lateral part of the base 101 to provide a gripping surface to passengers;
viii) a scanner 114 installed with the base 101 to scan tickets of passengers to accordingly cause a communication unit connected with a control unit to notify the passenger regarding the seat number and position of the seat as per the scanned ticket; and
ix) a display panel 204 mounted along an interior and an exterior of the vehicle 201 to display running schedule and available seats of the vehicle 201 for reference of passengers.

2) The gateway as claimed in claim 1, wherein a plurality of clamps 102 is attached with an end of the base 101 for gripping onto surface of the depot to secure the base 101.

3) The gateway as claimed in claim 2, wherein the clamps 102 are attached with the base 101 by means of hydraulic actuators 103.

4) The gateway as claimed in claim 1, wherein the luggage conveyor 106 comprises a first conveyor 106a arranged towards a first side of the base 101 to facilitate conveying of luggage into the vehicle 201 a second conveyor 106b arranged towards and a second side of the base 101 to facilitate conveying of luggage out of the vehicle 201.

5) The gateway as claimed in claim 1, wherein the retractable staircase 107 comprises of a plurality of plates 108 connected with one another by means of pin joints 109, the plates 108 supported on the base 101 by means of plurality of extendable rods 110.

6) The gateway as claimed in claim 1, wherein the plates 108 are connected with the rods 110 by means of ball and socket joints 111 and the rods 110 are connected with the base 101 by means of ball and socket joints 111.

7) The gateway as claimed in claim 1, wherein electromagnets 112 are arranged along edges of the plates 108 for a secure interfacing of the plates 108 for deployment as a stair case.

8) The gateway as claimed in claim 1, wherein a seat planning module is configured with the control unit to record the seats occupied by on-board passengers to determine empty seats available for upcoming depots.

9) The gateway as claimed in claim 9, wherein a holographic projection unit 115 is installed with the base 101 to display guiding visuals relating to usage of the base 101 for climbing and transferring luggage.

10) The gateway as claimed in claim 1, wherein a push button 205 is installed at the entrance of the vehicle 201, pressed by the passenger to indicate an emergency to cause the base 101 to be deployed at the depot.