The Platform Train Interface

Tender description

Transport for London's Open Innovation Team works with market innovators of all sizes to help solve some of the challenges that TfL faces where there is a need for more innovative solutions. Rather than prescribing solutions, we instead look to the market for creative, resourceful and novel approaches to problem solving to create new value for TfL by doing things better, quicker or cheaper. The Platform Train Interface (PTI) is the platform edge where it interfaces with trains and is normally accessible to customers. This includes the gap between the train and the platform. This gap is a common feature in metros of all networks across the world and London is no exception. TfL is addressing safety concerns related to people and objects slipping or falling between platform gaps and on to tracks, as well as reducing the impact of such incidents. Platforms with Platform Edge Doors (PEDs) or Platform Edge Screens (PES) offer more protection, but PEDs can obstruct visibility for train operators. While these safety measures are effective, they can be costly to implement retroactively. TfL is exploring new and innovative approaches to prevent accidents in the PTI area and minimise their consequences. Lot 1: TfL wishes to engage the market to seek feedback on emerging approaches and solutions for reducing the risk of falls between the train and the platform. Interested respondents are required to email msqinnovation@tfl.gov.uk to request the Platform Train Interface (PTI) - Market Sounding Questionnaire (MSQ) for completion by 12:00 (midday) on Monday 13 September 2024 in order to receive the MSQ. This is a pre-procurement activity and does not imply any commitment to any future procurement process. The purpose is to seek feedback on TfL's approach, appetite from industry and information on alternative solutions that are being developed in the marketplace for similar schemes. Participation in the PIN and subsequent MSQ is not a prerequisite to, and will not prejudice, participation in any future competitive process. The information contained in this PIN or in any communication made between TfL and any supplier in connection with this should not be relied upon as constituting a contract, agreement, or representation that any contract will be offered as a result of this PIN and MSQ. If TfL decides to progress with any procurement exercise , TfL will publish a separate contract notice.