While the technology exists to relay destination announcements at stop platforms via the Public Address, the Light Rail Order prohibits continuous loudspeaker announcements (given the frequency of service) on the grounds of noise nuisance. In the short term, therefore, the following options exist for patrons with a sight impairment and for whom the digital Passenger Information Display is of no use: The emergency help point can be used to get in contact with the central control room, which can provide real time passenger information on incoming trams, including final destination of each tram. For users with read-aloud technology on either an android or an i-phone, the Luas App provides real time passenger information including train destination. Visually impaired passengers can speak to the tram drivers, who have had disability awareness training and who have been specifically notified of the special difficulties encountered at line spurs. RPA are examining the possibility of introducing additional on-board destination announcements at key locations, such as at Heuston, Smithfield, Blackhorse or wherever there is a crossover. While this the problem, it may provide won’t solve passengers with more opportunity to disembark a wrong tram. Meanwhile, RPA are working with Enterprise Ireland (assisted by the Waterford Institute of Technology) to source a suitable small to medium sized company for specific research and development in this area. One possible solution might be use of a dongle/ fob or wireless device to determine the presence of a visually impaired passenger at a Luas platform. Once identified, a public or private audio message could be sent via either a local PA system or the wireless device. This solution has the benefit of minimum noise pollution to other passengers or nearby homes or offices. The announcements would mimic the information displayed on the Passenger Information Displays giving both the arrival time and the destination of the next expected tram. Another solution may extend to the development of a unique App. The timeframe for the initial research and design for the project is December 2012.
While the technology exists to relay destination announcements at stop platforms via the Public Address, the Light Rail Order prohibits continuous loudspeaker announcements (given the frequency of service) on the grounds of noise nuisance. In the short term, therefore, the following options exist for patrons with a sight impairment and for whom the digital Passenger Information Display is of no use: The emergency help point can be used to get in contact with the central control room, which can provide real time passenger information on incoming trams, including final destination of each tram. For users with read-aloud technology on either an android or an i-phone, the Luas App provides real time passenger information including train destination. Visually impaired passengers can speak to the tram drivers, who have had disability awareness training and who have been specifically notified of the special difficulties encountered at line spurs. RPA are examining the possibility of introducing additional on-board destination announcements at key locations, such as at Heuston, Smithfield, Blackhorse or wherever there is a crossover. While this won’t solve the problem, it may provide passengers with more opportunity to disembark a wrong tram. Meanwhile, RPA are working with Enterprise Ireland (assisted by the Waterford Institute of Technology) to source a suitable small to medium sized company for specific research and development in this area. One possible solution might be use of a dongle/ fob or wireless device to determine the presence of a visually impaired passenger at a Luas platform. Once identified, a public or private audio message could be sent via either a local PA system or the wireless device. This solution has the benefit of minimum noise pollution to other passengers or nearby homes or offices. The announcements would mimic the information displayed on the Passenger Information Displays giving both the arrival time and the destination of the next expected tram. Another solution may extend to the development of a unique App. The timeframe for the initial research and design for the project is December 2012.
english-version.docx