Brief

When our long-term partner approached us with a clear set of requirements for a modern, self-service ticketing terminal, we knew this project would need to reflect both their specific operational needs and the demands for a future-proof design. They were facing issues with outdated machines that no longer met accessibility or technological standards. Our goal was to create a robust, future-proof solution that could stand the test of time while maintaining flexibility for different deployment environments.

Key Partner Requirements:

• Durability: The machines needed to withstand the harsh climate of western Norway, including exposure to extreme weather and potential vandalism.

• Accessibility: The solution had to follow universal design principles, ensuring that it would be accessible to all passengers, regardless of ability.

• Technological Integration: Support for modern payment methods like contactless NFC, along with remote system diagnostics to minimize maintenance disruptions.

In collaboration with our partner, we initiated a development process rooted in close communication, ensuring every detail of their needs was addressed. This resulted in a modular, scalable design that could be integrated into existing infrastructure.

Technical Overview: Unique Features and Advanced Technology

The outdoor ticketing machine we developed incorporates the most advanced technologies available, making it a standout solution in the industry. Here’s a breakdown of the key technical features:

Core Elements:

• Marine-Grade Stainless Steel Construction: Built from AISI 316L stainless steel to provide maximum protection against weather conditions, the housing features IP56 protection against particles and liquids, as well as IK10 impact resistance.

• Thermal Management Technology (powered by FLOW technology): To ensure long-term stability, the ticketing machine features advanced thermal management, including intelligent heating, speed-regulated ventilation, temperature sensing, and automatic self-regulation. This technology minimizes maintenance and ensures peak performance in all weather conditions.

• Universal Design: Compliant with European accessibility standards, the machine includes features like braille and tactile markings, hearing loops, and an adjustable interface to ensure easy use for all passengers.

Add-On Modules for Expanded Functionality:

• 15.6” Display with Capacitive Touchscreen: 15.6 inch interactive display is protected by 4+4 laminated, anti-reflective glass, ensuring optimal visibility even in direct sunlight. The high-surface temperature resistance extends the screen’s lifespan. Touch screen can be interacted with gloves, this feature is essential for usability in Norway cold winters.

• Payment Solution: Featuring NFC technology and tactile pin pads, the payment module supports contactless transactions and mobile phone payments. This ensures fast, secure transactions, even during peak hours.

• Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS): Integrated UPS ensures the system remains operational during power outages, protecting the terminal from data loss and ensuring uninterrupted service to passengers.

• Modular Design: Each key component, whether it’s the touchscreen, payment module, or UPS, can be easily swapped or upgraded, ensuring the system remains adaptable and future-proof.

• Advanced Security: A custom dual-layer locking mechanism prevents unauthorized access to the terminal. Sensors detect when the door is opened, alerting administrators instantly. Liquid ingress detection is also built into critical areas, ensuring the system remains safe from potential water damage.

• Intelligence (powered by Controlmotion Advanced software): The system is not only capable of self-regulation and on-site service calls, but all data is also accessible through a web platform. This is essential for maintaining ongoing operations, especially in a network of 73 units. Controlmotion also enables advanced analytics, allowing for continuous improvements to the machines.

Proven Reliability Over Two Years

After two years of real-world deployment, the ticketing machines have proven their durability, functionality, and adaptability across multiple challenging environments. Here’s how time has validated the effectiveness of our solution:

Here’s what Jan-Roger Røys, System Administrator at Skyss, had to say:

“Infinitus has provided us with modern ticketing machines for our outdoor market. Because of their modular design, these machines can easily be maintained and upgraded to meet our demands for many years to come. With their robust and clever design, they have proven able to operate and withstand the harsh conditions of western Norway. Its modularity, along with its online monitoring software, has helped us reduce downtime and made service and maintenance quicker and more efficient. All modules can easily be swapped and then repaired, helping us consume less for a better environment!”

Real World Results:

• Durability Under Harsh Conditions: Despite the heavy rainfall/snow, fluctuating temperatures, and strong winds of western Norway, the ticketing machines have maintained performance. Their IP56 construction and FLOW thermal management system have proven more than capable of handling these challenges. Vandal-resistant features have also proven effective in safeguarding the system from physical damage. In two years of operation, none of the protective glass has been broken, which is remarkable given Bergen’s reputation for vandalism.

• Minimal Maintenance Requirements: Remote diagnostics have allowed administrators to monitor the machines in real-time, identifying potential issues before they cause downtime.

• Enhanced Accessibility: The inclusion of features like the hearing loop, tactile buttons, and an adjustable interface has increased accessibility for all passengers. The machine is intuitive and easy to use.

• High Transaction Success Rate: The contactless payment system has processed millions of transactions seamlessly, with minimal downtime due to the integrated UPS and robust electronic components. Even during power outages, passengers have been able to complete their purchases without disruption.

• Environmental Sustainability: The ability to swap and repair individual modules instead of replacing entire units has not only extended the life of each machine but also aligns with sustainability goals, reducing waste and lowering environmental impact.

Conclusion: A Partnership for the Future

The machine’s combination of innovative technology, rugged construction, and universal accessibility principles has set a new standard for self-service ticketing terminals.

With a network of 73 units deployed, the system has proven its scalability and adaptability, providing consistent performance across multiple locations.

As we look ahead, we remain committed to further improving and optimizing the system, ensuring that it continues to support our partner in providing high-quality public transport services for years to come.