Smart IoT-Driven
Bus Shelter
The Challenge
Driving real-time updates
for commuters
CLIENT: This confidential client is a leader in smart iot information systems for multiple applications in public and commercial spaces.
A North American public IoT data systems leader planned a connected, outdoor network that would enhance commuter experiences by delivering reliable real-time information and other communication capabilities. However, they needed expert hardware and embedded software guidance to make this product vision a reality, which led them to collaborate with Orthogone.
Architect an IoT-connected transit shelter
Integrate multiple smart systems
Activate real-time data and peripherals
This case study is also available as a PDF download.
CASE STUDY - Smart IoT-Driven Bus Shelter
Access the detailed case study on how Orthogone helped design and achieve a public-transit solution using IoT, real-time data, and solar energy for an optimal user experience.
The Solution
Innovating an all-weather info kiosk
Over 30 months, the Orthogone and client teams collaborated on the SmartShelter solution. This intelligent, autonomous, connected display delivers real-time data for multiple transportation use cases. It’s a sophisticated engineering solution that combines cutting-edge technologies such as electrophoretic display (e-paper), Microsoft Azure’s IoT Edge and IoT Hub, telemetry analysis, advanced power management, and intuitive user interfaces.
KEEPING TRANSIT RIDERS IN THE LOOP
Commuters on the go – especially ones waiting for buses – depend on accurate, up-to-the-minute information about bus schedules, weather conditions, and more. Orthogone’s client conceived a centralized product platform that would collect, analyze, and display pertinent information for operators and commuters. They contracted with Orthogone to architect a connected product that works off-grid yet presents real-time data, adapts to dynamic physical environments, and hosts an array of other appealing features.
To help achieve this, Orthogone tapped its considerable experience in developing embedded systems, electronic components, and IoT solutions. The team started by integrating Microsoft Azure Cloud technologies to create a platform for real-time communication and data processing, improving transportation operators’ ability to respond to constantly changing scenarios.
They added an e-paper display that was built with a front light, speaker, and microphones, making it easier for users to communicate with the information control centers. They also implemented LTE Cat 4 and 5G, which increased communication efficiency.
Adding edge processing using AI-capable processor cores allowed the system to analyze multiple variables that can impact bus schedules, thus providing more precise arrival and departure predictions.
The standalone solution is powered by a solar panel and a lithium-ion battery. Orthogone also implemented SmartShelter’s ability to selectively power down subsystems, which further contributed to energy efficiency – essential for North American climates.
Finally, the Orthogone team integrated remote computing capabilities as well as simultaneous telemetry analysis. For example, battery telemetry data can be used to predict service interruptions caused by weather conditions and panel location (in shade or full sun), while optimizing data-exchange rates on the network.
PLATFORM
- Azure IoT Hub and IoT Edge
- E-paper
- Linux
- Docker
- Python, C#
- Edge device with AI-capable GPU
- Solar panel
SENSORS
- NO2, SO4, O3, H2S gases (electrochemical)
- CO2 gas (non-dispersive IR)
Vision (camera) - Temperature, humidity, barometric pressure
- Audio detection (loud noises, distress)
- RF (Wi-Fi and Bluetooth activity detection)
POWER
- Solar panel with motorized self-cleaning
- Lithium-ion battery with heater for cold-temperature charging
- Sensors and communication interfaces for optimal power consumption
- Selective subsystem power-down routines
COMMUNICATIONS
- LTE Cat. M1
- Cat. 4
- 5G
- Wi-Fi (802.11 a/g/b/n/ac)
INTERFACES
- E-paper display with front light
- Speaker
- Pedestrian pushbutton
- Microphones
The Result
Industry-leading advanced detector solution with an extended product life cycle
It enhances the commuter experience by providing real-time data and adapting to changing weather conditions. The product boasts an extensive range of features such as solar compatibility, integrated sensors, digital street design, real-time ETA, wayfinding, advanced passenger safety, LTE, 4G, 5G ready, cloud and edge computing, AI-readiness, and business intelligence.
By using the SmartShelter solution, public transit ridership can be expanded, and a safer and more efficient transit experience is ensured. Orthogone’s contributions to the project have resulted in a scalable and flexible open architecture for smart city and transit applications. Our client now has a product that can drive operational efficiency, integrating with diverse systems such as Mobility as a Service (MaaS), on-demand, paratransit, carpooling, and intermodal.
