Final Thoughts
To develop an eff ective and aesthetically
pleasing HMI system for rail
applications, focus on optimizing usability,
effi ciency and safety. Eff ective
HMIs seamlessly integrate with existing
controls systems in areas accessible
by all passengers. It’s important
to possess a thorough understanding of
the application, environment and user.
Working with an experienced HMI supplier
can help ensure a system meets all
standards and provides successful and
safe operation.
John J. Pannone is vice president of HMI Systems,
EAO Corp. North America.
OCTOBER 10, 2017 | MassTransitmag.com | Mass Transit | Expo Daily | 11
ENVIRONMENTAL
CONSIDERATIONS
CONSIDERATIONS
To To address address potential potential environmental
environmental
concerns, stainless steel and durable
polymer-based products provide reliable
operation under the demanding
conditions of rail applications. Th is
includes protection up to IP67, as well
as resistance to heat, shock and vibration.
Ideal rail systems are designed
for minimal maintenance and longterm
use and abuse. A long life-cycle
combined with low cost of operation
is ideal for transportation companies.
Furthermore, push-button door
operation helps better regulate the
environment within the train. By
not opening all doors at every stop,
less energy is required to maintain
internal temperatures.
CONNECTING AND
COMMUNICATING WITH
AN HMI SYSTEM
HMI systems in rail applications
are typically hard-wired. Th is ensures
no special tools are required
and they are simple, visible and easy
to understand — especially where
the interface controls a single operation
such as power distribution.
HMI COMPONENT SELECTION
Once you have defi ned functionality,
you are ready to investigate
control technologies. Each technology
provides distinct advantages.
Common HMI components that
satisfy the needs of passenger use
applications include:
• LED illuminated push-buttons,
switches and indicators
• Keylocks, levers and rotary switches
• Emergency passenger alert functions
• “Secret-until-lit” controls
• Simple and complex audible tones
ALL PHOTOS BY EAO
Large
actuation
areas, dual
illuminating
rings, and
raised
symbols
help increase
ease of
operation.
—
Quickly optimize & streamline operations
Orange County Transportation Authority
(OCTA) wanted to reduce overall operating
expenses, but also improve efficiency and
effectiveness.
They chose ABB software, which included a
simplified infrastructure through the cloud.
ABB's configurable, end-to-end enterprise
asset management software provided
excellent fleet reliability, cost control and
updated asset mangement processes.
Leveraging ABB's deep transportation
industry experience, OCTA expects
immediate ROI via improved disaster
recovery, reduced overhead, simplified
management and easy adoption.
Learn more about this project at
www.bit.ly/ABB_OCTA
For more information, visit www.MassTransitmag.com/10066688
