Introduction: Artificial Intelligence and Subway Systems
Artificial intelligence and subway systems: For decades, subway systems kept the world’s major cities ticking over. Who could imagine New Your City without the subway or London without the tube? Cities like Singapore and Shanghai would likely come to a standstill without their highly efficient subways systems.
The coronavirus pandemic put a temporary halt on public transport, including subway systems. As citizens were asked to stay at home and companies introduced remote working, these arteries underneath our cities became quiet. As the world opens up again, subway systems are once again becoming critical in cities around the world.
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However, this time, the trains run differently. Artificial intelligence (AI) is changing every aspect of modern subway systems.
AI and the Ticketing Experience
Most commuters are used to paying for their subway far in bulk. Topping up the credit available on a metro pass or an oyster card has become normal. Whilst that system is convenient when you are traveling outside of rush hours, it still leads to queues when things get busy.
Artificial intelligence technology like facial recognition or biometrics including fingerprints can make for a smoother ticketing experience. Moreover, these technologies can also minimize how often someone needs to come in contact with high-touch surfaces.
Shanghai Metro introduced an AI-led ticketing system using voice activation in 2017 and continues to improve its functionality.
AI and Subway Route Planning
To the average traveler, it may seem like subway trains only have one track to travel along a given route. However, in many cities, trains have alternatives. Whilst there may be a preferred track which they would usually use, there may be others connecting the same two stations.
In case of a delay on one route, because of a breakdown or particularly crowded platforms, AI-driven by data gathered in real-time can suggest another route. The result? The train stays on schedule and avoids becoming stuck behind other trains.
Better Connections
Anyone who has lived in a busy city knows this scenario: you are speed-walking through a subway station as fast as you can to try and make your connection. Just as you are rushing down the stairs to the platform, the doors close and the train pulls away.
With the help of AI, you would have made your connection. The train you are connecting to would receive a notification that your first train has just pulled in. Based on realistic data of how long it takes to walk from one platform to the other, the second train knows how long to wait.
You benefit from no longer having to run through subway stations, pushing people out of the way. Your commute becomes smoother.
AI and Crowd Management
Here is another all-too-familiar scenario for regular subway users: it is rush hour and trains and platforms are packed with travelers.